PGCE Secondary - Mathematics

Program Overview

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PGCE Secondary - Mathematics

Mathematics is integral to many careers and critical in the UK economy. Train to teach this in-demand subject and set the next generation on the road to success.

Start Dates

• September 2025

Degree Type

• PGCE

Course Length

• 1 year

Location

• Durham City

Programme Code

• X7KM14

Course Details

Why does a minus multiplied by a minus make a plus? What is the Fibonacci sequence, and why is it essential in the field of encryption and the study of codes? The PGCE Secondary – Mathematics is an ideal choice if you love maths and want to provide young learners of all abilities with a solid grounding in numbers that will help prepare them for a wide range of careers.

Offering a combination of academic and practical learning, the course introduces you to the range and scope of mathematics across the 11-16 curriculum. Developed around the latest research and curriculum developments, the PGCE aims to develop your subject knowledge and pedagogical skills as you examine the techniques to make mathematics accessible and stimulating in a classroom environment. By learning more about the reasons behind mathematical rules, you will be more able to offer your pupils the targeted support they need.

Successful completion of the PGCE leads to a Postgraduate Certificate in Education awarded by Durham University and the recommendation for Qualified Teacher Status. The QTS element is accredited by Newcastle University and awarded by the Department of Education.

We pride ourselves on offering a well-planned blend of research and experience in the classroom to start you on your successful career as an Early Career Teacher. We emphasise your entitlement to the Core Content Framework throughout our PGCE course to fully prepare you for the Early Career Framework, which will support you during your first two years of teaching as an Early Career Teacher.

The University-based sessions focus on a weekly specific pedagogical theme, integrated with sessions devoted to your subject specialism, delivered by subject specialists in the University and the school partnership. The Professional Studies sessions explore your understanding of critical concepts and classroom practice, allowing you to reflect on your teacher identity and progress as a developing teacher.

Please note that the course does not run to standard University terms. It is delivered full-time, starting in early September and continues over 10 months.

Course Structure

Year 1 Modules

Core Modules:

• New Generation of Learners: introduces PGCE students to various fundamental educational theories. It starts the journey of addressing the gap between research and practice.
• Pedagogy Practice Inquiry: creates a critical link between PGCE students’ understanding of school-based practice, context and theory, and research and policy related to pedagogy (for example, through the lens of lesson planning).
• Curriculum Development in Practice: offers an opportunity for students to reflect on professional practice in their chosen subject from the perspective of the curriculum.
• Professional Studies and School-Based Practice: The predominantly classroom-based Professional Studies and School-Based Practice fosters a critical understanding of issues related to developing professional competence as a teacher. Areas covered include effective teaching strategies, managing the teaching and learning environment, enhancing professional development, and creative dimensions of teaching and learning.

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.

School-based activities support your development to meet the Government's Teachers' Standards and the recommendation for QTS.

The course comprises four modules that enable you to explore ideas in the field of education. Learning methods include a combination of readings and preparation for teaching in school, teaching in schools, teaching time in lectures and workshops, professional studies days, independent study, and assignments.

Assessment

Assessment of the PGCE takes the form of three 2,500-word assignments, and evidence portfolios of 1,500 words.

For all your assignments, you will be supported by the module convenor, your tutor, and the academic services within the University.

Entry Requirements

• The equivalent of a UK 2:2 honours degree and one of the following applies: the degree is approximately 50% comprised of Maths or a closely related degree subject or you have an A Level in Mathematics. We may accept closely related degree subjects.
• If you need to improve your subject knowledge you may be asked to complete a subject knowledge enhancement (SKE) course.
• GCSE English and Mathematics at grade 4 (or C) or above (or equivalent). We’ll consider candidates with pending GCSE’s. We’ll consider candidates who need to take an equivalency test in English and/or Maths.
• 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.

Your interpersonal qualities and your potential to achieve professional skills relating to the Teachers' Standards will be considered when making an admissions decision. Candidates who meet the criteria, will be invited to an interview which will be held online consisting of a range of questions and a series of tasks designed to illustrate your potential to meet the Teachers' Standards by the end of the course.

It is highly recommended that any foreign nationals applying "have spent six months living in the UK", have had employment or volunteered as a teaching assistant in a state school in England or in an International school following the English national curriculum, have some knowledge of, or experience in working with, the English National Curriculum.

Successful candidates will receive an offer conditional upon successful Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and medical assessment. This is for “fitness to teach” before starting the course.

Alternative Qualifications

• Other UK qualifications
• EU qualifications
• International qualifications

International students who do not meet direct entry requirements for this degree might have the option to complete an International Foundation Year. Home students who do not meet our direct entry requirements, may be eligible for our Foundation Programme which offers multidisciplinary programmes to prepare you for a range of specified degree programmes.

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

The tuition fees shown are for one complete academic year of study and are set according to the academic year of entry. Fees will be subject to an annual inflationary increase and are expected to rise throughout the programme of study. The fee listed above is for the first year of the course only.

Career Opportunities

Education

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. The delivery of the subject by relevant academic experts brings together world class research, innovative teaching and exceptional support.

Your time as a member of our student community places you in the strong position to pursue a successful career in a range of different sectors. Career opportunities in education are numerous, rewarding, and far reaching.

Most of our PGCE graduates go directly into teaching whilst MA graduates progress into a wide range of roles including educational research, publishing, education administration, policy making and management plus jobs in commercial or public sectors.

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.

The School of Education offers both teacher training and non-teacher training education programmes, set within a vibrant and engaged learning community of around sixty academic staff and 350 postgraduates. We are a leading educational research centre with strong international ties and numerous partner relationships with schools and colleges.

Our postgraduate courses are flexible and allow you to follow a particular interest. They include MAs in Education, Educational Leadership and Change and Intercultural Communication and Education. We also offer a range of PGCE qualifications at primary and secondary levels and in specific school subjects.

We provide opportunities for learning from academic staff who are leading research and teaching experts in their fields. They underpin our School’s commitment to conducting research that contributes to shaping educational practice and policy, develops educational research and methodologies, informs school improvements and supports the professional development of teachers around the world.

Our portfolio of research projects attracts interest and financial support from important bodies who have a key role in developing education in the UK. They include the Economic and Social Research Council, the Nuffield Foundation, the Sutton Trust, and the Education Endowment Foundation, as well as a range of other organisations and charities.

Similar Courses

• PGCE Secondary - Biology - PGCE
• PGCE Secondary - Chemistry - PGCE
• PGCE Secondary - English - PGCE
• PGCE Secondary - Geography - PGCE
• PGCE Secondary - History - PGCE
• PGCE Secondary - Modern Foreign Languages - PGCE
• PGCE Secondary - Physical Education - PGCE
• PGCE Secondary - Physics - PGCE

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

This program aims to train individuals to become passionate and effective secondary mathematics teachers, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to instill a love for the subject in the next generation. It combines academic learning with practical experience, preparing participants to tackle the challenges and rewards of a career in education.

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Objectives:

• Develop a strong understanding of the mathematical concepts included in the 11-16 curriculum.
• Enhance pedagogical skills and knowledge to effectively teach mathematics to diverse learners.
• Acquire strategies to make mathematics accessible and engaging for all students.
• Understand the theoretical and practical aspects of education, including current research and curriculum developments.
• Develop the professional skills and knowledge required to become a qualified teacher.

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Program Description:

The PGCE Secondary - Mathematics is a 10-month, full-time program offered by Durham University in partnership with schools across the region. It provides a unique blend of theoretical learning and practical experience, ensuring participants are fully prepared for their future teaching careers.

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Structure:

The course consists of four modules:

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New Generation of Learners:

Introduces fundamental educational theories and bridges the gap between research and practice.

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Pedagogy Practice Inquiry:

Develops critical understanding of classroom practice, theory, and research related to teaching and learning.

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Curriculum Development in Practice:

Offers opportunities to reflect on subject-specific professional practice from a curriculum perspective.

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Professional Studies and School-Based Practice:

Fosters critical understanding of issues related to developing professional competence as a teacher, including teaching strategies, classroom management, and professional development.

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Teaching:

• Combines lectures, seminars, workshops, and school-based placements.
• Delivered by experienced subject specialists from the University and partner schools.
• Emphasizes active learning, collaboration, and critical reflection.

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Other:

• The course runs full-time from September to June, with a significant portion (minimum 140 days) spent in school placements.
• Participants create a professional portfolio and complete three 2,500-word assignments.
• The program prepares graduates to successfully navigate the Early Career Framework during their first two years of teaching.

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Careers:

The program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career as a Secondary Mathematics teacher. Graduates are well-prepared to:

• Inspire and motivate students of all abilities.
• Make mathematics engaging and accessible.
• Create a positive and inclusive learning environment.
• Contribute to their school community and the wider profession.

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Assessment:

• Three 2,500-word assignments.
• 1,500-word evidence portfolios.
• Supported by module convenors, tutors, and academic services.

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Full Time Fees

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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).