Program Overview

PGCE Secondary

Course Description

This is for you if... you have an undergraduate degree and would like to train to teach 11-18 year-olds.

Entry Requirements

• 2:1 degree for English, Geography, History or Social Science
• 2:2 degree for Maths, MFL, Sciences or RE
• GCSE Grade C or above in English Language and Maths.
• A-levels (or equivalent) in relevant subjects
• Although not essential, you may find it useful to have recent experience working with children and/or observing teaching in a school setting, ideally relating to the age range/subject you wish to teach.

Application Process

The application process for a PGCE is different from other postgraduate courses.

Additional Requirements

• Admission to the course is subject to a satisfactory medical report.
• All offers are subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS disclosure.

English Language Requirements

You must have a GCSE Grade C in English Language.

International Qualifications

Find your country in this list to check equivalent qualifications, scholarships, and additional requirements.

Fees and Funding

UK Students

• £9,535

International Students

• £18,950

Careers and Employability

New teachers have now become some of the best-paid postgraduates in England. From September 2023, once you have completed your one-year PGCE course - which awards you QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) - as a primary or secondary school teacher in England, you’ll start on a minimum salary of £30,000 (£36,745 in inner London). Your salary will be reviewed every year, with most teachers moving up the pay range annually. A typical teacher could earn at least £41,333 (or more in London) within 5 years.

Related Courses

• PGCE Secondary (Lead Partners)
• PGCE Primary
• PGCE Primary (Lead Partners)

Course Structure

Professional Studies Programme

The Professional Studies programme runs throughout the academic year and forms the core of the PGCE Secondary programme. It is compulsory for student teachers from all subject areas.

School Placements

You will undertake two secondary teaching placements in our Partnership Schools. You will have the opportunity to work in diverse inner city and rural environments, with learners from a wide range of ethnic backgrounds.

Why Leicester?

You'll have access to the very best, and most inspiring, practising teachers – participating in their seminars, observing them in the classroom, or being guided by them during your placements.

Teaching and Learning

Your learning will consist of a combination of university-based classes and school-based teaching placements where you will get hands-on experience of teaching a class. Our course has been praised by external examiners for its focus on reflection. You will be encouraged to evaluate your own teaching and share your learning with your peers.