If you are interested in joining a PGCE, you should apply online through GOV.UK. We’re here to guide you on your journey to studying with us with information on the application process and how to write a strong personal statement.
Please note Applications to undergraduate initial teacher training programmes are made through UCAS and not GOV.UK.
How to apply
Applications are made online with GOV.UK where you can apply for up to four programmes initially.
Courses will usually open for applications in October for entry in the following September.
Places will be allocated as applications are received through the year so we strongly recommend that you apply as early as possible in the cycle.
Please note: You do not need to wait until you have completed your undergraduate degree to be able to apply for a postgraduate degree. If you are in the final year of an undergraduate degree, you can apply for a postgraduate course before you have your final degree classification. You will be able to submit your application without uploading a degree certificate at this stage. Any offers you do receive will be subject to you achieving the required undergraduate degree classification stated in the entry criteria for the relevant course and providing a copy of your degree certificate prior to starting the course.
Preparing your application
When you begin your application, you will be asked to create an account on GOV.UK or use an existing account if you already have one. Each time you sign into GOV.UK using your email address, a link will be sent to you to return to your application.
The online application system is split into a variety of sections.
Personal details and contact information – you will need to supply your name, email address, contact phone number and date of birth
References – you will need to add two references
Qualifications – add details of your degree, whether you have GCSE English Language or GCSE English Literature and GCSE Mathematics at Grade C or Grade 4 or above (or equivalent), as well as details of A levels and/or any other qualifications
Personal statement – you will need to outline in up to 1000 words, what relevant skills you have, your experience of working with young people, why you want to be a teacher and why teaching is important. You should also include any relevant activities (such as first aid, sports coaching or volunteering). Find our tips to writing a strong personal statement
Work experience – summarise your employment history with details of all jobs since leaving school, as well as any unpaid experience working with children or in a school
Adjustments – this is your opportunity to ask for any extra support if you’re disabled, have a mental health condition, or any educational needs, as well as any flexibility required around interview dates, such as caring responsibilities or employment
Safeguarding issues – this is your opportunity to highlight any potential safeguarding issues, such as offences, reprimands and final warnings
Submitting your application
When you have completed all of the above fields, you will have the opportunity to check through and review your application before submitting it. There is no application fee.
What qualifications do you need to teach in England?
To work as a teacher, you need to have Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) status to teach in early years, primary or secondary settings. You will need to have Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status if you want to become a teacher or trainer in the further education and skills sector. Successful completion of one of our PGCEs will lead to a recommendation for QTS or QTLS.
How much time will I spend in schools?
Most of your course will be spent learning hands-on in schools. This includes planning and delivering your own lessons, progressively gaining confidence in teaching as your timetable increases. You’ll become involved in all aspects of the school setting life, taking charge of your student’s achievements. You can expect to engage in regular discussions on current education issues, supported by online materials. We also encourage you develop your proficiency in digital skills to help you become an impactful educator.
Offers
If your application is successful at the first stage, we will invite you to attend an interview.
An offer of a place may be unconditional (meaning a firm offer of a place on a programme) or conditional (meaning you have an offer of a place, as long as you meet specified conditions, such as minimum degree classification).
You will be able to track the progress of your application at all times and must formally reply to any offers through the GOV.UK system when making a decision. Once you are confident with your choice, we would encourage you to reply to any offers as soon as you can. Where relevant, this will allow you as much time as possible to meet any remaining conditions of your offer prior to the course start date.
Contact us
For further information about any of our PGCEs, please get in touch with our Course Enquiries Team, who will be happy to assist you.
If you are an international student in need of support, please email our dedicated international team or visit our international pages.
