Program start date | Application deadline |
2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
PGCE Secondary - History
Course Details
The PGCE Secondary in History supports you to become a confident and innovative early career teacher who can inspire pupils to engage with the past and appreciate its relevance to the present.
Start Dates
- September 2025
Degree Type
- PGCE
Course Length
- 1 year
Location
- Durham City
Programme Code
- X7KH14
Course Structure
Year 1 Modules
Core Modules:
- New Generation of Learners
- Pedagogy Practice Inquiry
- Curriculum Development in Practice
- Professional Studies and School-Based Practice
Learning
The Durham PGCE Secondary is a full-time programme with a strong practical focus. You will spend a significant part of the year (a minimum of 120 days) based in schools through the Durham University Schools Partnership. In addition, there are 20 days of Intensive Training and Practice sessions that will strengthen the link between evidence and classroom practice.
Assessment
Assessment of the PGCE takes the form of three 2,500-word assignments and evidence portfolios of 1,500 words.
Entry Requirements
- The equivalent of a UK 2:2 honours degree of which at least 50% should be in the subject you wish to teach.
- GCSE English and Mathematics at grade 4 (or C) or above (or equivalent).
- If your qualifications are from an overseas institution you must apply for a Statement of Comparability from ENIC.
- For International Applicants for whom English is not their first language, a minimum IELT|S score of 7.0 is required with no individual component less than 6.5.
Alternative Qualifications
- Other UK qualifications
- EU qualifications
- International qualifications
Fees and Funding
Full Time Fees
- Home students: £9,535 per year
- EU students: £25,000 per year
- Island students: £9,535 per year
- International students: £25,000 per year
Career Opportunities
The consistently high ranking of the School gives us a worldwide reputation for the quality of not only our teaching but the skills and knowledge of our postgraduate community.
Department Information
Education
One of the leading education establishments in the UK, Durham’s School of Education provides the skills and experience necessary whether you aspire to become an outstanding teacher, contribute to educational development, or carry out vital research that informs the creation of education practice and policy.
Facilities
The School of Education is characterised by its diversity and vibrancy and the enthusiasm and commitment of its postgraduate community to improving the provision of education in the UK and across the globe.
Similar Courses
- PGCE Secondary - Biology - PGCE
- PGCE Secondary - Chemistry - PGCE
- PGCE Secondary - English - PGCE
- PGCE Secondary - Geography - PGCE
- PGCE Secondary - Mathematics - PGCE
- PGCE Secondary - Modern Foreign Languages - PGCE
- PGCE Secondary - Physical Education - PGCE
- PGCE Secondary - Physics - PGCE
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The PGCE Secondary in History offered by Durham University is a full-time, one-year program designed to equip aspiring teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge to inspire students and bring history to life in the classroom. The program focuses on developing subject knowledge, pedagogical skills, and classroom experience, preparing graduates for a successful career as early career teachers (ECTs).
Outline:
The PGCE Secondary in History program comprises four modules:
- New Generation of Learners: This introductory module delves into fundamental educational theories, bridging the gap between research and practical application in the classroom.
- Pedagogy Practice Inquiry: This module establishes a critical connection between school-based practice, context, theory, and research related to pedagogy, allowing students to refine their lesson planning skills.
- Curriculum Development in Practice: This module provides students with the opportunity to reflect on professional practice in history from a curriculum perspective.
- Professional Studies and School-Based Practice: This predominantly classroom-based module fosters a critical understanding of issues related to developing professional competence as a teacher. Topics covered include effective teaching strategies, classroom management, professional development, and creative approaches to teaching and learning.
Assessment:
Assessment in the program is conducted through:
- Three 2,500-word assignments: These assignments allow students to showcase their understanding of key concepts and demonstrate their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations.
- Evidence portfolios of 1,500 words: These portfolios provide students with an opportunity to showcase their teaching skills and reflections on their experiences in the classroom.
Teaching:
The program emphasizes a combination of theoretical and practical learning:
- University-based sessions: These sessions focus on weekly specific pedagogical themes integrated with subject-specific sessions delivered by experts in the field.
- School-based activities: Students spend a significant portion of the year (minimum 140 days) in partner schools, gaining practical experience and developing their teaching skills under the guidance of experienced mentors.
- Professional studies: These sessions explore critical concepts and classroom practices, allowing students to reflect on their professional development and teaching identity.
Careers:
The program prepares graduates for a successful career as History teachers in secondary schools. Graduates are well-positioned to meet the Government's Teachers' Standards and are recommended for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
Other:
- The program starts in early September and runs continuously for 10 months.
- Successful completion of the program leads to a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) awarded by Durham University.
- The program places strong emphasis on the Core Content Framework and prepares students for the Early Career Framework, supporting their development during their first two years as ECTs.
Full Time Fees
Tuition fees
Home students £9,250 per year EU students £23,500 per year Island students £9,250 per year International students £23,500 per year The tuition fees shown are for one complete academic year of full time study, are set according to the academic year of entry, and remain the same throughout the duration of the programme for that cohort (unless otherwise stated).
Durham University
Overview:
Durham University is a prestigious public research university located in Durham, England. It is renowned for its academic excellence, historic setting, and vibrant student life. The university is consistently ranked among the top 100 universities globally, with particular strengths in subjects like History, Engineering, Psychology, Geography, Physics, and Law.
Services Offered:
Durham University offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Library & Collections:
Access to a vast collection of books, journals, and digital resources.Student Support & Wellbeing:
Comprehensive support services for students' academic, personal, and mental health needs.Careers, Employability and Enterprise:
Guidance and resources to help students develop their career skills and find employment opportunities.Enrichment Activities:
A diverse range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and societies to enhance the student experience.Welcome and Orientation:
A comprehensive program to help new students settle into university life.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Durham University provides a unique and enriching campus experience. Students can expect:
Residential Colleges:
Living in historic and beautiful colleges, fostering a strong sense of community.Vibrant Social Scene:
A lively social scene with numerous events, clubs, and societies.Historic Setting:
Studying in a city steeped in history, with iconic landmarks like Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle.Close-knit Community:
A friendly and supportive environment with a strong sense of belonging.Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
Consistently ranked among the top universities globally, offering high-quality teaching and research.Prestigious Reputation:
A globally recognized institution with a strong alumni network.Historic Setting:
A unique and inspiring campus environment with a rich history and culture.Vibrant Student Life:
A lively and diverse student community with numerous opportunities for personal and professional development.Academic Programs:
Durham University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts and Humanities:
History, English Literature, Classics, Philosophy, Theology, and more.Science and Engineering:
Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Engineering, Computer Science, and more.Social Sciences:
Psychology, Sociology, Economics, Politics, Geography, and more.Business and Management:
Business Administration, Finance, Marketing, and more.Other:
Global Durham:
The university has a strong international presence, with partnerships and collaborations worldwide.Research Impact:
Durham University conducts innovative and impactful research across various fields.Sustainability:
The university is committed to sustainability, with initiatives to enhance biodiversity and reduce its environmental impact.Alumni Network:
A strong and active alumni network, providing support and opportunities for graduates.Entry Requirements:
EU and Home Students:
- Academic Qualifications:
- Equivalent of a UK 2:2 honours degree, of which approximately 50% must be in History or a closely related subject.
- GCSE English and Mathematics at grade 4 (or C) or above.
Island Students:
- Same as EU and Home students.
International Students:
- Equivalent of a UK 2:2 honours degree, of which approximately 50% must be in History or a closely related subject.
- English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS 6.5 or equivalent (with no less than 6.0 in any component).
- Other accepted English tests: PTE Academic (minimum score of 56), C1 Advanced (minimum score of 176), Trinity ISE (minimum score of 3 for ISE III).
Language Proficiency Requirements:
International Students:
- **IELTS 6.5 or equivalent (with no less than 6.0 in any component).
- Other accepted English tests: PTE Academic (minimum score of 56), C1 Advanced (minimum score of 176), Trinity ISE (minimum score of 3 for ISE III).