Program Overview

Introduction to the Professional Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE)

The Professional Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) is a graduate entry route for those who want to become a primary or secondary teacher in Scotland. The PGDE is an internationally recognised qualification, and newly qualified teachers will be able to apply for qualified teacher status (QTS) or equivalent in their home country.

Key Facts

• Start date: August
• Accreditation: General Teaching Council for Scotland
• Study mode and duration: 36 weeks full-time, including 18 weeks of placement experience
• UCAS Code: 3X56
• Gaelic Medium UCAS Code: 3X75

Why this Course?

Teaching is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding careers you can pursue – you'll shape the minds of tomorrow! This course will provide the theoretical and practical starting point to your teaching career. You'll acquire the skills, attitudes, and competencies to communicate in the classroom.

What you’ll Study

You’ll learn the theories behind teaching practices and explore these throughout the year. You'll gain the skills necessary to become the best teacher you can be. You'll also see the relevance of everything you're learning come alive while on placement. Classes are held on campus, and you'll carry out three placements in two different schools throughout the year.

Course Content

• Compulsory classes
  • Education Studies; Professional Values
  • Professional Learning Through Enquiry
  • Professional Skills
    • Curriculum and Pedagogy
    • Professional Practice
• Optional classes

Learning & Teaching

The course encourages active and participative styles of learning in order to meet your professional needs and to promote a commitment to continuing professional development.

Assessment

To be awarded the Professional Graduate Diploma in Education, you must pass all course modules.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for PGDE courses are based on the requirements set by the General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTCS). The minimum entry requirements are:

• An ordinary degree, or international equivalent
• Evidence that the applicant has also studied at least two of the following areas (as well as Maths and English):
  • Science
  • Social studies
  • Expressive arts
  • Religious and moral education
  • Technology
  • Languages
• SCQF Level 6 English Grade C or above (for example, Higher Grade)
• SCQF Level 5 Mathematics Grade C or above (for example, National 5)
• Evidence of experience of working with children in a primary school or related setting
• An understanding of modern primary education
• An ability to relate to people

Fees & Funding

All fees quoted are for full-time courses and per academic year unless stated otherwise.

• Scotland: TBC
• England, Wales & Northern Ireland: TBC
• Republic of Ireland: If you are an Irish citizen and have been ordinary resident in the Republic of Ireland for the three years prior to the relevant date, and will be coming to Scotland for Educational purposes only, you will meet the criteria of England, Wales & Northern Ireland fee status.
• International: £19,850
• Additional costs:
  • Placements & field trips: Travel to schools
  • PVG Scheme (Protection of Vulnerable Groups): £59 membership fee, £18 for existing members
  • Visa & immigration: International students may have associated visa and immigration costs.

Careers

The PGDE qualification is required for employment as a teacher in a primary school. It qualifies you to teach in locations worldwide. Following the probationary period, it can provide a starting point for a clearly defined career structure within primary education. The promoted posts in primary schools are principal teacher, depute head teacher, and head teacher.

Conclusion

The Professional Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) is a graduate entry route for those who want to become a primary or secondary teacher in Scotland. The course provides the theoretical and practical starting point to your teaching career, and it is an internationally recognised qualification. With experience, teachers in Scotland can apply for posts as Principal Teacher, Deputy Head, or Head Teacher. A number of graduates will become lecturers on initial teacher education courses, HM Inspectors, or take on other development roles at Education Scotland or with the General Teaching Council for Scotland.