PGCE Secondary Computer Science and ICT with QTS (11-16)

Program Overview

PGCE - Secondary Computer Science and ICT with QTS (11-16)

Inspire the next generation of computer scientists by sharing your passion for the subject with young people. In this specialised PGCE pathway, you can instil a love of the innovative industry of tech within the children you teach.

Our well-respected PGCE Secondary with QTS supports you through your journey from student to Early Career Teacher (ECT). Moreover, as the PGCE programme includes QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) you'll apply for your first teaching position whilst studying with us.

Course Overview

Grounded in the learning of our PGCE Secondary programme, this Computer Science and ICT pathway allows you to develop the skills to teach in the secondary school setting, delivering engaging lessons. This unique specialism gives you the opportunity to inspire the next generation of computer scientists and tech innovators.

You’ll learn through a blend of theory and hands-on experience, working within the National Curriculum Framework. You'll explore the key concepts and themes of the PGCE curriculum, confidently devising and delivering engaging lessons to children and young people, aged 11-16 years old.

Over half the course will be spent working in the classroom on assessed placement, with school-based enrichment activities alongside your university-based study. You'll take two placements across a variety of schools and settings, building a wealth of experience to help advance your future career.

On this course you will...

• Inspire young people to explore innovative tech industry.
• Benefit from high-quality support from our academics and staff on a programme designed around you.
• Learn from an experienced, highly qualified programme team, working at the forefront of the academic field.
• Enjoy the intimate feel of our course delivery, with small class sizes and your own personal tutor.

Key Details

• Recruiting to: UK / RoI / Settled in UK
• Course Location: Lancaster or School Based
• Institute: Institute of Education, Arts and Society
• DFE Code: G5X1
• Delivery Style: In-person
• Course Duration: Full-time: 1 Year
• Course Start Point: September
• Award: PGCE

Minimum entry requirements

• A satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) background clearance check and Occupational Health check prior to starting the course.
• A satisfactory academic (University) reference, or, a satisfactory professional reference if it is more than 3 years since academic study.
• You are welcome to apply if you have achieved a 2:2 or above in any ICT or computing subject, GCSE English Language or Literature, and GCSE Maths at grade C/4.

What we're looking for

• Motivated applicants with the potential to work at a Masters level.
• Evidence of commitment and appropriate professional values.
• A strong personal statement conveying an enthusiasm for the subject, for working with young people and for teaching and learning.
• Graduates with a 2:2 or above degree classification.
• Aspiring teachers who can bring their passion for Computer Science to the classroom setting.

Fees & Funding

Tuition Fees

• £9,535 - UK (2025-2026)
• £14,900 - International (2025-2026)

International Finance

At the University of Cumbria, we offer affordable tuition fees for international and EU students looking to study at one of our main four campuses.

Funding

We have a wide range of scholarships, bursaries, grants and funds available to support you throughout your studies with us.

• PGCE Alumni Scholarship: Scholarship fund worth up to £2,000
• Student Finance: Most applicants are eligible for student finance support provided by the UK government.

Additional Costs

• Books: Most core text books are available via the University's library, however students may wish to buy copies of any texts used to support your learning on your course. This could cost between £50 - £100 per year.
• Stationery: Students should budget for stationery and consumables for your own personal use. This should include notebooks, pens and pencils for taking notes in class and/or in the field. Students should also budget for the purchase of USB pen drives, as well as occasional printing and photocopying costs incurred in the preparation or submission of coursework. Whilst you will choose how much you need, expect to pay around £30 - £40 per year for these items.
• Clothing and Equipment: Students may wish to have their own computer or laptop for undertaking their assignments. This is not however a requirement for access to the programme as the University does make such facilities available across all of its main sites and learning gateway buildings. Should students wish to purchase a computer then an entry-level laptop would suffice, £300 - 400.
• Field Trips: Students will need to fund their own transport to their placement. There is the possibility that a university arranged placement will require travelling time, and any expenses incurred are to be met by the student. Therefore, the student should budget for these travel costs.

Course Structure

What you will learn

Our course ensures that you learn all the skills you need for effective teaching, from the basics of structuring and planning lessons to developing personal skills and confidence. Our school-based programme is delivered through dedicated sessions with trainees and school mentors, and allows you to learn from working alongside experienced school colleagues.

Modules

• PGSC7011 Investigating Teaching and Learning in Computer Science and ICT
• PGSC7012 Investigating Teaching and Learning Across and Beyond the School Curriculum
• PGSC9011 Developing Professional Skills, Knowledge and Practice

Teaching & Assessment

How you will learn

As a student at the University of Cumbria, you are part of an inclusive learning community that recognises diversity. You will have opportunities to learn by interacting with others in a collegiate, facilitative and dynamic learning environment.

How you will be assessed

Assessment loosely follows two forms; summative and formative. ‘Summative Assessment’, involves making some sort of judgement on your work that is recorded, such as essay writing. 'Formative assessment', is carefully crafted feedback that does not count towards your final grade but helps you develop your professional learning.

Progression

The programme also recognises that gaining a PGCE and achieving QTS is not the end of your professional learning journey. It is with this in mind that the contributory modules have been planned to allow you to undertake a seamless transition to a University of Cumbria MA in education.