What is a PGCE and Why is it Important?

Are you looking for an answer about what it takes to become a teacher in the UK? One of the most common paths is the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). But what is a PGCE, and why is it so important for future teachers? If you’re thinking about a career in teaching, it’s important to know how this qualification can help. In this blog, we’ll explain what a PGCE is, how it prepares you to teach, and why it’s a key step to becoming a qualified teacher.

What is a PGCE?

A PGCE, or Postgraduate Certificate in Education, is a qualification for people who want to become teachers in the UK. It is a course you can take after completing a bachelor’s degree.

This  program teaches you how to be a good teacher by combining lessons about education with real classroom experience. You will learn how to plan lessons, manage a class, and teach different subjects. You’ll also spend time in a school, practicing what you’ve learnt with real students.

Most PGCE courses take one year to complete, but part-time options are available. After completing your PGCE, you can apply for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), which is often needed to teach in UK schools.

Why is This Important?

Understanding that a PGCE is a Level 7 qualification highlights several key points:

• Academic Rigour: The PGCE involves rigorous academic work, requiring you to engage deeply with educational theories, teaching strategies, and classroom management techniques. As a result, it prepares you for the complex demands of the teaching profession.
• Professional Development: Being a Level 7 qualification, the PGCE also reflects a commitment to professional development. It’s designed for those who already hold a bachelor’s degree and wish to advance their expertise to a professional standard.
• Qualification Recognition: Since the PGCE is at Level 7, it is widely recognised within the educational sector as a mark of advanced qualification. This recognition can enhance your employability and is often a requirement for gaining Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

A PGCE is a Level 7 qualification, equivalent to a master’s degree, that signifies advanced academic and professional training in education. This level of study ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the challenges of teaching and are recognised as competent professionals in the education sector.

What does PGCE stand for?

PGCE stands for Postgraduate Certificate in Education. It is a postgraduate qualification that is recognised across the UK and in many other countries. The term “postgraduate” means that it is designed for individuals who have already completed an undergraduate degree. The PGCE focusses on equipping future teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge to work in schools. It combines academic learning with practical teaching experience, helping to prepare graduates for the classroom.

Types of PGCE Programmes

There are several different types of PGCE programs available, depending on what level or subject you wish to teach. Here’s a breakdown of the main types:

Primary PGCE

If you want to teach younger children, a primary PGCE could be the right option for you. This course prepares you to work in primary schools, where you’ll be responsible for teaching a range of subjects to children aged 5 to 11.

Secondary

Those who prefer working with older children may choose a secondary PGCE. This program focusses on teaching pupils aged 11 to 16, although you may also teach students in sixth form (ages 16 to 18). You’ll specialise in one subject, such as mathematics, English, or science.

Further Education

If teaching in colleges or adult education centres interests you, a PGCE in further education might be the way forward. This course prepares you for teaching learners aged 16 and over. It’s a good option for those who want to work with older students or teach vocational courses.

Do you really need qualified teacher status?

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is a legal requirement for teaching in many English schools, particularly in the state-funded sector. While some schools, such as academies and free schools, can employ teachers without QTS; having this qualification is highly desirable and often expected by most schools in England. It shows that you have met the required standards set by the Department for Education and possess the necessary skills and knowledge to teach effectively.

However, it’s important to note that QTS alone does not provide the theoretical foundation that a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) offers. While QTS focuses on practical teaching skills, a PGCE provides a deeper understanding of educational theory and research.

Here are some key points to consider:

• Legal requirement: QTS is mandatory for teaching in maintained schools and non-maintained special schools in England.
• Career prospects: Having QTS can significantly improve your job opportunities and potentially increase your earning potential.
• Professional recognition: QTS is a recognised qualification that demonstrates your competence as a teacher.
• International teaching: If you plan to teach outside England, a PGCE might be more beneficial as it’s internationally recognised, whereas QTS is specific to England (and Wales if obtained there).
• Continued development: While QTS is important, ongoing professional development is crucial for a successful teaching career.

Conclusion

A PGCE is more than just a qualification. It combines learning about teaching methods with real classroom experience. This combination prepares you to handle the challenges of teaching and to effectively support students.

Getting a PGCE shows your dedication to becoming a skilled teacher. It also improves your chances of finding a teaching job and sets you up for gaining Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), which is often required for teaching roles in the UK.

If you love the idea of teaching and want to make a difference in students’ lives, a PGCE is a great step. It gives you the tools and experience you need for a successful teaching career.