Program Overview

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Introduction to the University of Bedfordshire

The University of Bedfordshire is a public university located in Bedfordshire, England. It has a long history of providing high-quality education and has a strong reputation for teaching and research.

About the Course: Secondary History PGCE

The Secondary History PGCE course at the University of Bedfordshire is a postgraduate course that leads to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). The course is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to become effective history teachers in secondary schools.

Course Overview

The course is a practice-led course, with 80% of the time spent on placement in partner schools. The course focuses on developing students' practical teaching skills, understanding of educational theory, and subject-specific knowledge.

What Will You Study?

The course covers a range of topics, including:

• The National Curriculum for History
• Developing personal subject knowledge
• The structure of a History lesson
• An introduction to planning and evaluation
• Matching teaching approaches to learning outcomes
• Managing the History classroom
• Teaching History outside the classroom
• Misconceptions in History
• Issues around History and inclusion; gender, race, ethnicity, class and achievement in History
• Planning inclusive History work
• The role of technology in teaching and learning History
• Supporting language and literacy in the History curriculum

Assessment

The assessment strategy is based on the premise that critical evaluation of theoretical perspectives as they apply to students' own teaching is an intrinsic element of best teaching practice. The course uses a range of assessment methods, including:

• Evidence-informed writing
• Profile Review Points
• Cumulative Evidence Record
• Teachers' Standards

Careers

On graduating, students can apply for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), enabling them to work as history teachers in secondary education settings. Many graduates go on to rewarding employment in local schools.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for the course are:

• A 2.2 honours degree or equivalent in a related subject area
• GCSE grade 4 English (or a C)
• GCSE grade 4 Maths
• Safeguarding checks, including an Enhanced DBS, and Occupational Health check are required

Fees

The PGCE tuition fee for the Academic Year 2026/27 is Ł9,535. Students can apply for a loan from the Government to help pay for PGCE tuition fees. A limited number of bursaries are available for Primary PGCE courses.

Facilities and Specialist Equipment

The University of Bedfordshire has a range of facilities and specialist equipment, including:

• Teacher Education Centre with realistic mock classrooms
• Forest School
• Sensory Centre
• Up-to-the-minute simulation technology
• Multimedia space for webinars and podcasting

Career-Powered Links

The University of Bedfordshire has well-established partnerships with over 500 schools and other associated organisations across the eastern region. This network provides students with opportunities for placement, mentoring, and career development.

Your Student Experience

The University of Bedfordshire is committed to providing a high-quality student experience. The course has a strong focus on wellbeing, with specialist sessions entitled 'Looking after yourself as a teacher'. The University also offers a range of support services, including academic support, careers advice, and counselling.

Course Leader

The Course Leader for the Secondary History PGCE is Mohammed Amin. Mohammed is an experienced teacher educator with a background in secondary Humanities teaching. He has worked in a range of educational settings and has a strong commitment to developing the next generation of teachers.

Research at Bedfordshire

The University of Bedfordshire has a strong reputation for research and has a range of research areas, including education, health, and social sciences. The University is committed to making a significant social and economic contribution to the local and national economy.

Academic Support

The University of Bedfordshire offers a range of academic support services, including:

• Academic mentoring
• Study skills support
• Library and learning resources
• IT support

Introducing the Research & Innovation Service (RIS)

The Research & Innovation Service (RIS) is a team that supports the University's academic colleagues with research and knowledge exchange activities. The RIS team provides a range of services, including research funding, project management, and business engagement.

How Can We Help You?

The University of Bedfordshire is committed to helping students achieve their goals. Whether you are a prospective student, a current student, or a graduate, the University has a range of services and support available to help you succeed.