PGCE- Post Graduate Certificate in Education

A PGCE is an academic qualification awarded by a Higher Education Institution, like The University of Warwick, and gained through a variety of teacher training routes including university-led teacher training courses (PGCE Core) and school-led routes (PGCE School Direct). Here at Arden Alliance, in partnership with The University of Warwick, we offer PGCE with QTS at both primary and secondary levels.

All applications for PGCE programmes are handled the Department for Education (DfE).

What are the requirements?

There are specific entry requirements for gaining a PGCE that will vary between institutions. Some will require a subject specific degree, whilst other teaching course providers will allow non-specific degrees, particularly for shortage subjects if you complete a Subject Knowledge Enhancement course.

How do I get a PGCE and who recognises it?

If the teacher training route that you apply for offers a PGCE you will need to undertake a number of additional assignments during your teacher training. A PGCE is usually recognised abroad as a teacher training qualification, however as with QTS, if you intend to teach in a different country, it is always worth checking what qualifications they would accept.

QTS- Qualified Teaching Status

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is a professional qualification that is awarded by the DfE when a person can prove that they meet all of the Teachers’ Standards and criteria. QTS is required in England to teach in a state school that is under local authority control and in special schools. It is most commonly gained alongside or as part of a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) qualification.