| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Overview
This course leads to the award of Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) for the 11-to-16 age range, which qualifies you to be a teacher in secondary schools in England and Wales. Where possible, we also give you the chance to gain experience in the 11-to-18 age range. You could also be eligible for the highest range of tax-free training bursaries.
Biology is the most popular science choice at A-level. In addition to being a key component of Science in the National Curriculum, it is also offered as a separate GCSE option in many schools. It is the third-most studied A-level subject overall, so there's always a need for great biology teachers.
We see the development of your subject knowledge for teaching as a priority. The subject studies element of your training programme enables you to develop skills, knowledge and understanding of science, and particularly biology, in the secondary school context.
Our ethos is based on collaboration, not competition. We encourage you to work collaboratively just as you will when you qualify and start working in a school.
Our vision for you:
You will become teachers who inspire:
- The next generation of scientists to follow STEM career pathways.
- Non-scientists remain interested in science and being scientific, so they make well-informed evidence-based decisions in their lives for themselves and their families.
Course Options
PGCE
- Start date: September 2025
- Duration: 1 year
- Tuition fees:
- Home applicant: TBC per year
- International applicant: £15,560 per year
Entry Requirements
Academic Requirements
- Bachelor's degree with minimum Second Class (2:2) or equivalent in the subject applicant plans to teach.
- GCSE English and Maths grade A*-C/9-4.
- Satisfactory references.
- Satisfactory personal statement.
International Qualifications
We accept a wide range of European and international qualifications in addition to A-levels, the International Baccalaureate and BTEC qualifications.
Interview
An interview is required with a member of the academic teaching team.
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
Applicants for this course are required to complete a Student Suitability Declaration and an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
Health Check
Applicants for this course are required to complete an occupational health check.
Fees, Funding, and Additional Costs
Fees
EU, EEA and Swiss Nationals starting a course from September 2021, will no longer be eligible for Home fees.
Funding
Home Students
- Postgraduate Loans Scheme: £10,280 to fund your Masters Programme under the Postgraduate Loans (PGL) scheme.
- Postgraduate Scholarship: Apply for a 50 per cent discount on your tuition fees.
- Alumni Discount: Up to 15% fee waiver.
- Early Payment Discount: 5% fee waiver.
- Asylum Seekers scholarship: 100% fee waiver.
- Civic Engagement: £1,000.
- Hardship Bursary: Up to £2,000.
- Sport Scholarships: Up to £6,000.
International Students
- Living costs for international students: £1,265 per month.
- How to pay your fees: Deposits and paying by instalments.
Additional Costs
- Textbooks
- Computer equipment
- Printing
- Travel
Course Modules
Year 1
- Active Enquiry and Intervention: Impacting upon Learner Progress Core Module
- Developing Subject Expertise and Subject Specialism Core Module
- School-Based Learning: Reflections on Practice (Mental Wealth) Core Module
What We're Researching
At the University of East London we are working on the some of the big issues that will define our future; from sustainable architecture and ethical AI, to health inequality and breaking down barriers in the creative industries.
Your Future Career
The Secondary PGCE course at the University of East London was designed in 2001 in conjunction with the local authorities to address the secondary education teacher shortage in East London.
Industry Links
The partnership works with input and support from the London Boroughs of Barking & Dagenham, Newham, Tower Hamlets, Hackney, Waltham Forest and Redbridge.
Further Study
You may also decide to undertake further study at the University of East London, either at the end of your course or after gaining teaching experience, perhaps specialising in Special Educational Needs or taking our MA Leadership in Education.
Career Options
Explore the different career options you can pursue with this degree and see the median salaries of the sector on our Career Coach portal.
How We Support Your Career Ambitions
We offer dedicated careers support, and further opportunities to thrive, such as volunteering and industry networking.
Career Zone
Our dedicated and award-winning team provide you with careers and employability resources, including:
- Online jobs board for internships, placements, graduate opportunities, flexible part-time work.
- Mentoring programmes for insight with industry experts.
- 1-2-1 career coaching services.
- Careers workshops and employer events.
- Learning pathways to gain new skills and industry insight.
Mental Wealth Programme
Our Professional Fitness and Mental Wealth programme which issues you with a Careers Passport to track the skills you’ve mastered.
How You'll Learn
We are very well equipped for initial teacher training with three specialist laboratories, including multimedia training equipment and materials.
Teaching
The university-based training initially consists of weekly generic lectures and subject-specific workshops, which effectively prepare trainee teachers to successfully move into a school environment when they begin their school placements and gradually start practising and developing their teaching skills with pupils in the classroom.
Placement
It is expected that you will undertake two school placements in contrasting schools totalling approximately 24 weeks.
How You'll Be Assessed
To pass your PGCE and be recommended for Qualified Teacher Status, you have to demonstrate that you have met the Teachers' Standards and passed the below-mentioned core modules:
- Active Enquiry and Intervention: Impacting upon Learner Progress
- Developing Subject Expertise and Subject Specialism
- School-Based Learning: Reflections on Practice (Mental Wealth)
Campus and Facilities
Stratford Campus, London, E15 4LZ
Our historic Stratford campus is located in one of the best-connected areas of London: close to Stratford's thriving town centre, the 2012 Olympic Park, just 15 minutes from London's West End and 20 minutes from Canary Wharf.
Who Teaches This Course
This course is delivered by the School of Childhood and Social Care.
The teaching team includes qualified academics, practitioners and industry experts as guest speakers.
Related Courses
This course is part of the Teacher Education and Training subject area.
- PGCE Secondary Design and Technology
- PGCE Secondary Computing
University of East London
Overview:
University of East London (UEL) is a public university located in London, United Kingdom. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. UEL is known for its commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment, with a focus on practical skills and real-world experience.
Services Offered:
Study:
UEL offers a comprehensive range of courses, including undergraduate, postgraduate, apprenticeships, and clearing options. They also provide advice for mature learners and offer a variety of subjects and schools.Visit UEL:
The university hosts undergraduate open days and provides information about its location.Student Information:
UEL offers resources for current and new students, including information on student life, accommodation, term dates, fees and funding, and scholarships.International:
UEL provides support for international students, including advice for their region, pre-degree courses, visa and immigration advice, and pre-sessional English programs.Your Career:
UEL offers career services, including career coaching and mentoring, opportunities to meet employers, and resources for volunteering and work while studying.Partners:
UEL collaborates with various partners, including businesses and organizations, to provide opportunities for students and staff.Our Research:
UEL conducts research across various disciplines and offers postgraduate research programs.About:
UEL provides information about its schools and subjects, governance, professional services, vision, alumni, and sustainability initiatives.Student Life and Campus Experience:
The context provides information about student life at UEL, highlighting the vibrant campus environment and the support available to students. It mentions the university's commitment to providing a positive and inclusive learning experience.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong focus on practical skills and real-world experience:
UEL emphasizes practical learning and provides opportunities for students to gain valuable experience through internships, placements, and other initiatives.Supportive and inclusive learning environment:
UEL is committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all students, regardless of their background or circumstances.Vibrant campus life:
UEL offers a range of student activities, clubs, and societies, providing opportunities for students to connect with others and develop their interests.Excellent career support:
UEL provides comprehensive career services to help students prepare for their future careers.Academic Programs:
The context mentions that UEL offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. It also highlights the university's commitment to research and its involvement in the Research Excellence Framework (REF).
Other:
The context mentions that UEL is celebrating a Year of Science in 2024. It also highlights the university's strong performance in the National Student Survey (NSS), ranking 3rd nationally for overall student positivity and top 10 in Teaching, Learning Opportunities, Assessments and Feedback.
