Program Overview

Introduction to PGCE Secondary Design and Technology with QTS

The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) Secondary Design and Technology with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is a one-year program designed to prepare students to teach design and technology across the secondary school curriculum for the 11-16 age range. This includes food, textiles, product design, and electronics design at Key Stage 3 and the GCSEs in 'Food Preparation and Nutrition’ and 'Design and Technology’, as well as associated GCSE vocational courses.

Course Overview

The program explores the range of materials used in design and technology, as well as how to teach school students to explore these materials safely and design and make with them. Much of the university-based work takes a practical, hands-on approach that includes health and safety and how to manage practical lessons. These take place in modern and well-equipped facilities, including a multi-materials workshop, a food preparation kitchen, and a textiles room.

Key Features

• Employability: Students gain the skills and experience to teach design and technology and food production and nutrition at key stage 3 and GCSE, as well as gaining a level 3 diploma in food science and nutrition and accredited workshop Health & Safety certification.
• Teaching Experience: Students spend at least the minimum Department for Education (DfE) required time (approximately 120 days) on placement, gaining experience in mainstream secondary schools.
• Postgraduate Credits: Upon graduation, 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: Many staff are active researchers in education, and their research influences the programs. The School of Education at Manchester Met ranks in the UK’s top 10 research power in education.

Course Structure

The program includes lectures and seminars at Manchester Met, with students typically spending a minimum of 120 days on two teaching placements across Greater Manchester. At the university, students mainly study with those in their subject specialism, learning how to plan and deliver lessons through interactive, hands-on seminars.

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) and Placement B (Secondary PGCE): Provide contexts for students to 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.

Entry Requirements

• Degree: Normally a minimum of a 2:2 undergraduate honors degree awarded by a UK university, or an equivalent higher education qualification. The degree must support the subject knowledge requirements of the national curriculum for the subject.
• GCSE: Grade C/4 or above in English language and mathematics.
• Other Requirements: Appropriate post-16 qualifications, 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. 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 design and technology teachers in secondary schools. The PGCE program provides 60 masters' level credits, which can be put towards a master's degree to help develop a career in the field of education. The university offers careers support and prospects, including employability services, mentorship, and skills development opportunities.

Conclusion

The PGCE Secondary Design and Technology with QTS is a comprehensive program that prepares students for a career in teaching design and technology in secondary schools. With its emphasis on practical experience, research-led teaching, and employability, the program equips students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in their future careers.