Primary Online (PGDE - Graduates only)

Please note that applications for the PGDE Primary Online Programme for entry in January 2026 are not yet open. If you wish to apply for entry to commence in January 2026, please check back at the end of January 2025, when applications will open.

Obtain an accredited teaching qualification in 18 months with our PGDE Primary Education programme to shape young minds and instil a notion of life-long learning. Our flexible course includes 18 weeks (full-time) of practical experience in schools to acquire diverse insights into teaching and advance your confidence as a practitioner in education. Embark on the path to a fulfilling career in primary education with our online GTCS accredited programme that aims to transform our students into adaptable, inclusive teachers who can inspire participation and face the challenges of teaching to support all pupils in their learning.

Our comprehensive programme brings a multi-focus perspective to build upon varied experiences shared among peers and discuss current educational issues to strengthen your teaching skills. You will learn with highly-qualified academics and study a selection of innovative topics to challenge your thinking and enrich your specialist knowledge. We have strong partnerships with a range of local authorities across Scotland, allowing you to obtain 18 weeks of invaluable practical training to enhance your professional practice in the classroom. Once you have completed the programme, you will meet the standards for full registration as a teacher, guaranteeing you a probationary classroom teaching period if you opt into the GTCS induction scheme.

For Academic Year 2024-25, term commences January 2025, part time, online, with full time attendance for placements.

The PGDE Online Primary programme offers students a blended model of learning. Students will engage with online learning one or two evenings a week with additional asynchronous learning in addition to these taught sessions.

During school experience placements, students are required to be in school on a full-time basis. There are two placement periods – each lasting 9 weeks usually in April-June The second placement will commence February 2026 to May 2026, with exact dates confirmed in the 2025/2026 calendar.

Eligibility criteria is in place. Students undertaking this online programme must be resident in Scotland and this will be verified through the PVG check.

PVG Check A Protection of Vulnerable Group (PVG) check through Disclosure Scotland will be conducted by the University prior to final acceptance. The PVG check will also evidence residency in Scotland. This is required of all applicants who accept an offer of admission for PGDE Online Primary, even those who have been checked previously. For UK applicants, resident in Scotland, who have lived outside the UK for any period of time, in accepting an offer of admission, an Enhanced criminal record check through Disclosure Scotland will be conducted and in addition, it will be necessary for the applicant to obtain a criminal record check from the country they are from/lived in. The PVG check is paid for by the applicant and is processed after an applicant confirms their firm acceptance of their place.