Program Overview

Introduction to the PGCE Primary with QTS Program

The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) Primary with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is a one-year program designed to prepare students to teach the primary curriculum. This program is offered by Manchester Metropolitan University and is part of the School of Education.

Program Overview

The PGCE Primary with QTS program is a full-time, one-year course that starts in September and ends in June. The program includes two teaching placements in mainstream primary schools, where students will gain experience in teaching and learning. The program also includes university-based sessions, where students will learn about teaching methods, organizational skills, and how to apply their knowledge in the classroom.

Course Structure

The program consists of several core modules, including:

• Professional Development and Employability (Primary Education)
• Curriculum Studies
• Professional Studies
• Placement A (Primary PGCE)
• Placement B (Primary PGCE)

Features and Benefits

The program offers several features and benefits, including:

• Developing age phase specialism (3 to 7 or 5 to 11)
• Teaching experience in mainstream primary schools
• Diverse placement opportunities
• Student support, including academic support and professional mentoring
• Specialist tutors with subject and phase expertise
• Research-led teaching, with many staff members being active researchers in education
• Professional development opportunities, including early career teacher support and continuing professional development

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for the program, applicants must have:

• Obtained (or be working towards) a 2:2 honors degree (or international equivalent)
• GCSE grade C/4 or above in English language, mathematics, and science
• A satisfactory DBS clearance check and health check
• Overseas candidates must have Cambridge Proficiency in English or IELTS 7.0 with no component below 6.0

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees for the 2026/27 academic year are still being finalized. However, information on 2025/26 standard undergraduate fees for UK/Channel Islands and EU/Non-EU international students is available.

Careers Support and Prospects

The program provides excellent career prospects, with most graduates going on to work as teachers in primary schools. The PGCE program also provides 60 masters-level credits, which can be put towards a masters degree to help develop a career in the field of education.

Additional Information

The program includes a fitness to teach requirement, which involves completing an Occupational Health Assessment. Students will also be required to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and a satisfactory health check. The program is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS), and the university has a student protection plan in place.