Program Overview

Introduction to PGCE Secondary Chemistry with QTS

The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) Secondary Chemistry with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is a one-year program designed to prepare students to teach the secondary school science curriculum for the 11-16 age range. This program is offered by Manchester Metropolitan University and aims to develop students' knowledge, skills, and experience to teach chemistry and other sciences at Key Stage 3, Key Stage 4, and potentially up to A-level.

Course Overview

The PGCE Secondary Chemistry with QTS program is part of the School of Education at Manchester Metropolitan University. The program is taught by highly experienced, research-active subject experts and supported by an excellent team of science technicians. The course includes lectures, seminars, and practical sessions, as well as two teaching placements in different secondary schools or colleges.

Features and Benefits

• Employability: Students will have the skills and experience to teach all three sciences to GCSE and their specialism, potentially up to A-level.
• Teaching Experience: Students will spend at least the minimum Department for Education (DfE) required time (approximately 120 days) on placements, gaining experience in mainstream secondary schools.
• Postgraduate Credits: When students graduate, they will 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: Many of the staff are active researchers in education, and their research influences the programs.

Course Structure

The program includes the following core modules:

• Subject Pedagogy: Develops students as teachers, enabling them to reconceptualize their knowledge and understanding of their subject and apply this to planning, preparation, and classroom teaching.
• Secondary Professional Studies: Explores current and critical issues, educational theory, and research connected to practice in schools, developing reflective practice and professional development.
• Professional Development and Employability (Secondary Education): Supports and challenges students to reflect upon and develop their professional practice and teacher identity.
• Placement A (Secondary PGCE): Provides contexts in which students can put into practice their own learning, reflect on their actions, evaluate their role in relation to pupils' learning, and review their performance in supporting teaching and learning.
• Placement B (Secondary PGCE): Enables student teachers to demonstrate their progress toward meeting the Teachers' Standards for Qualified Teacher Status.

Entry Requirements

• Degree: A minimum of a 2:2 undergraduate honors degree awarded by a UK university, or an equivalent higher education qualification.
• GCSE: Grade C/4 or above in English language and mathematics.
• Other Requirements: Appropriate post-16 qualifications, an ability to communicate effectively in spoken and written English, 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, information on 2025/26 standard undergraduate fees for UK/Channel Islands and EU/Non-EU international students is available.

Careers Support and Prospects

Most graduates go on to work as science teachers in secondary schools. The PGCE program provides 60 masters' level credits when students graduate, which can be put towards a master's degree to help develop their career in the field of education. The university offers careers support and prospects, including a careers service, online short courses, and opportunities to meet employers.

Conclusion

The PGCE Secondary Chemistry with QTS program at Manchester Metropolitan University is a comprehensive and well-structured course that prepares students to become effective and inspiring science teachers. With its strong focus on employability, teaching experience, and research-led teaching, this program is an excellent choice for those looking to pursue a career in secondary school teaching.