Program Overview

Introduction to PGCE Secondary Art and Design with QTS

The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) Secondary Art and Design with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is a one-year program designed to prepare students to teach the secondary school art and design curriculum for the 11-16 age range.

Course Overview

The program focuses on teaching methods through interactive workshops, where students experience learning as if they were pupils in a school art class. This approach helps students understand how to plan lessons, reflect on their planning, and develop their teacher persona. The course covers various aspects of art, craft, and design, including drawing, printmaking, ceramics, and lens-based media like photography.

Course Structure

The program consists of lectures, seminars, and practical sessions at Manchester Metropolitan University, as well as two teaching placements in mainstream secondary schools across Greater Manchester. Students will spend at least 120 days on placement, gaining experience in teaching and learning.

Features and Benefits

The program offers several features and benefits, including:

• Employability: Students gain knowledge, skills, and experience to teach art and design at Key Stage 3, GCSE, and potentially A/AS-level.
• Teaching experience: Students spend a minimum of 120 days on placement, gaining experience in mainstream secondary schools.
• Postgraduate credits: Students achieve 60 masters' level credits, which can be put towards further study and career development.
• Partnerships: The university has partnerships with over 500 schools, colleges, and educational organizations, providing students with a range of school experiences.
• Research-led teaching: The program is informed by the latest educational research and theories, ensuring students receive a high-quality education.

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for the program, students must:

• Have a minimum of a 2:2 undergraduate honors degree awarded by a UK university or an equivalent higher education qualification.
• Have GCSEs at grade C/4 or above in English language and mathematics.
• Demonstrate a good understanding of teaching and learning within a secondary school setting.
• Have excellent interpersonal skills and an informed and realistic understanding of the complexities and challenges of teaching in a secondary school.

Fees and Funding

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

Careers Support and Prospects

The program provides students with excellent career prospects, with 93.7% of UK-domiciled, full-time, postgraduate taught graduates employed or in further study 15 months after graduation. The university's Careers Service offers support and guidance to help students prepare for their future careers.

How to Apply

Students can apply for the program through the Find Postgraduate Teacher Training Service. The final interview date for overseas applicants is May 1, 2026, and students must submit their application by April 6, 2026.

Disclaimers

The program is subject to annual review and major review (normally at 6-year intervals) to ensure an up-to-date curriculum supported by the latest online learning technology. The university reserves the right to make changes to the program, and students should check the online prospectus for the most up-to-date information.