| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The PGCE English with QTS program at Bradford College prepares aspiring teachers for a career as ECTs in secondary schools. It combines theory and practice through a blended approach of college sessions and school placements. The curriculum covers all areas of the English curriculum and aims to develop reflective practitioners who are equipped with the skills and knowledge for success in the classroom.
Program Outline
It's a one-year, full-time, Level 7 Higher Education course leading to a recommendation for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). The program focuses on developing reflective practitioners who continuously improve their knowledge, understanding, and skills. The curriculum covers all areas of the secondary English curriculum, linking theory and practice. Bradford College sessions are practical and address subject knowledge, teaching techniques (pedagogy), and professionalism needed to support students. The course strongly links theory and practice through school placements, meeting the minimum entitlement outlined in the ITT: Core Content Framework within a curriculum designed by Leeds Trinity University. Support is provided by tutors and mentors in college and schools. Successful completion provides the training and expertise to build skills and knowledge for confidence in the classroom as an ECT, including planning, teaching, class management, assessment, recording, reporting, and understanding professional responsibilities. While it mentions that all areas of the secondary English curriculum are covered and that Level 7 academic modules are completed, specific module titles and descriptions are absent.
Assessment:
Formative assessment occurs throughout school-based training, mapping progress against core competencies with summary judgments at each stage. This provides feedback on strengths and areas for development. A summative assessment, using the Teachers’ Standards as a benchmark, is conducted at the end of school-based training. Meeting the Teachers’ Standards leads to a QTS recommendation from Leeds Trinity University.
Teaching:
The program uses a blended approach, combining relevant, practically-based sessions at Bradford College with school placements. Experienced mentors in both settings provide support. The teaching emphasizes the connection between theory and practice.
Careers:
Successful completion prepares graduates for a career as an Early Career Teacher (ECT) in secondary schools. The program equips them with the skills and knowledge needed to plan, teach, manage a class, and handle assessment, recording, and reporting. It also addresses the professional responsibilities and accountability aspects of teaching.
Other:
School experience is a vital component, with placements arranged within the 11-16 age range in Bradford and surrounding areas. The program aims to provide a wide range of experiences to meet the needs of students from across the region. Strong links with local schools contribute significantly to the training. The program is delivered in partnership with Leeds Trinity University, which acts as the accredited provider.
Bradford College is a major further and higher education institution in Bradford, West Yorkshire, England, with a history dating back to 1832, when it was established as the Bradford Mechanics Institute. It serves around 25,000 students, offering a broad range of full-time and part-time courses at different levels, from introductory programs to postgraduate degrees.
Academic Offerings:
- Further Education: The college provides T-Levels, vocational qualifications, and apprenticeships, equipping students with hands-on skills for employment.
- Higher Education: With one of the largest higher education provisions among further education colleges in England, Bradford College offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, as well as professional courses.
- Flexible Learning: Courses are available in various formats, including academic, professional, and vocational pathways, ensuring accessibility for school leavers, adult learners, and working professionals.
Facilities & Industry Connections:
- The college operates across six campuses, each designed to support career-focused learning with modern facilities tailored to industry standards.
- It collaborates with employers and industry partners to ensure that programs meet workforce demands, helping students gain practical skills and real-world experience.
- Students benefit from work placements, apprenticeships, and career development services, enhancing their employability in competitive job markets.
Community & Student Support:
- Bradford College is committed to inclusive education, supporting a diverse student body with personalized guidance, financial aid, and career counseling.
- It offers programs for adults returning to education, providing opportunities for career advancement or skill development.
With a strong reputation in further and higher education, Bradford College continues to empower students by offering career-driven courses, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong industry connections.
Entry Requirements:
A good honours degree with a significant proportion in English. Applicants with third-class honours degrees will be considered individually, usually only if they have additional qualifications and/or significant relevant professional experience. GCSE Grade 4 (or C or accepted equivalent) in English Language or English Literature and Mathematics is required. Experience in secondary schools is helpful but not mandatory. The ability to read effectively and communicate clearly and accurately in spoken and written standard English is essential. Applicants must meet the Secretary of State’s requirements for physical and mental fitness to teach; a health assessment is required for all successful candidates. Strong applicants often have Advanced level qualifications (or equivalent) in English and experience observing teaching in a secondary school in this country.
