International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) with PGCE

Program Overview

International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) with PGCE

Overview

The iQTS with PGCE is a 60-credit, level 7, online, part-time programme that enables you to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) alongside PGCE credits. The modules cover subject pedagogy, the theory and practice of teaching primary subjects, and professional identity.

Study Options

• Part-time: 1 year
• UK fee: £9,535 (2025/26)
• International fee: £9,535 (2025/26)
• Start date: September
• Location: Online

Course Description

The iQTS with PGCE is a UK government-backed international teaching qualification, recognised by the DfE, as equivalent to English Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). This course is for trainee teachers of primary education ages 3-11 years.

Highlights

• Develops outstanding teachers within primary education, who are ‘thinking professionals’ who can account for the choices they make in their classrooms
• Study route for primary age group (3-11 years)
• 60 Masters credits available from assessments on modules examining Professional Identity and Subject Pedagogy
• Flexible teaching qualification that addresses complex global education issues
• Creates teachers who are critical thinkers, enabled to grow into leaders of learning, able to shape the educational landscape of their classrooms in an international context
• Inclusive practice and raising aspirations for all learners are key drivers behind this course

What You Will Study

The iQTS with PGCE course consists of one 40 credit module and one 20 credit module, both at level 7, and three zero credit modules at level 6.

Core Modules

• Professional Practice 1: Fundamentals of Practice
• Professional Practice 2: Enhancement of Practice
• Professional Practice 3: Qualifying and Transition Phase
• Professional Theory 1: Professional Identity
• Professional Theory 2: Subject Pedagogy

How You Will Learn

• Live sessions with tutors or guest speakers (all sessions recorded to view afterwards)
• Discussion around topics in the virtual cafes and digital forums
• Exploring case studies
• Independent study
• Digital workshops and seminars
• Practice placements

Student Support and Guidance

• Dedicated Personal Tutor and Online Learner Advisor
• Library
• Health and Wellbeing Centre
• Careers and Employability Service
• IT Support
• Union of Students
• Develop@Derby for study, personal and employability skills

School Placements

• 140 days of school experience during the iQTS course, including 20 days of Intensive Training and Practice (ITaP) based in your placement school
• Applicants are required to source their own placement prior to enrolment on the course
• Placements should be sourced by yourself, with a mentor able to support you for a minimum of 1.5 hrs per week and commit to 20 hours of synchronous and asynchronous mentor training throughout the year

Assessment Method

• Placement-based assessments
• Modules incorporate formative and summative assessments
• Ongoing feedback (written/ verbal) will be provided by your tutors, your mentor and peers during taught sessions and placement experiences

Who Will Teach You

• Dr Adam Simcock, Senior Lecturer in Education
• Dr Adam Simcock, Programme Lead for the iQTS programmes
• Alan Bazeley, Lecturer in International Education
• Lynsey Meakin, Programme Leader Integrated M.Edu with Qualified Teacher Status and Senior Lecturer in Education
• Charlotte Mosey, Assistant Head of Discipline: Primary Initial Teacher Training and Education
• Rebecca Petronzi, Senior Lecturer in Initial Teacher Education and English subject leader
• Becky Manton, Senior Lecturer in ITE (Primary/EYTS)

Careers

• The iQTS with PGCE gives you a highly respected route into primary teaching, across the world
• You will automatically be recommended for English QTS from the UK government Department for Education upon successful completion of this course
• As a graduate of this course and ultimately becoming a teacher with internationally recognised qualified teacher status, you can pursue a career in teaching anywhere in the world, including in England

Entry Requirements

• Undergraduate degree (at least a 2:2) with Honours or equivalent
• Grade 4 in GCSE English Language or equivalent
• Grade 4 in GCSE Mathematics or equivalent
• Grade 4 in GCSE Science or equivalent
• English language qualifications (if English is not your first language)
• Interview with members of the Programme Team (via Microsoft Teams)

Fees and Funding

• UK/EU fee: £9,535 (2025/26)
• International fee: £9,535 (2025/26)
• Fee Discount for iPGCE Graduates: £990 (Academic year 2025/2026)
• Technical Equipment Costs: not covered within your course fees

How to Apply

• Application deadline: 25 June 2025
• Apply directly to the University
• Documents required to support your application:
  • Copy of certificates and transcripts or a letter of testimony for previous qualifications
  • Official photo identification such as a passport or driving licence
  • Current CV detailing your full employment history and teaching experience
  • Letters from national authority about any 'imposed restrictions or conditions'
  • Two written references that must be addressed to 'The Admissions Tutor: iQTS'
  • Evidence of placements
  • Applicants who have ever lived, studied, or worked, in the UK will need to supply an International Child Protection Certificate (ICPC) together with your application form
  • A Certificate of Good Conduct from any country (other than the UK) that you have taught in over the last 5 years