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Postgraduate Certificate in Education (QTS) - Primary SEND PGCE

University of Birmingham
Birmingham , United Kingdom
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Students
Tuition Fee
GBP 9,535
Per year
Start Date
2026-09-01
Medium of studying
On campus
Duration
36 weeks
Details
About Program
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Details
Program Details
Degree
Masters
Major
Special Education | Teacher Training
Area of study
Education
Education type
On campus
Timing
Full time
Course Language
English
Tuition Fee
Average International Tuition Fee
GBP 9,535
Intakes
Program start dateApplication deadline
2026-09-01-
2027-09-01-
About Program

Program Overview

Postgraduate Certificate in Education (QTS) - Primary SEND PGCE

The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (QTS) - Primary SEND PGCE programme is designed to empower students' teaching journeys with specialist SEND training. This programme ensures professional growth, guiding students to make informed teaching decisions.


Course Overview

The PGCE Primary SEND (QTS) programme combines theoretical knowledge and practical experience, leading to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). This programme offers 80 credits towards further study, allowing graduates to pursue a Master's degree such as the MA in Teaching Studies.


Course Structure

The PGCE Primary SEND (QTS) programme includes the study of subject-specific teaching techniques as well as wider professional topics. Students will also work in schools for a total of 28 weeks, with 35 days of training at Chadsgrove Special School.


  • Term 1: September-December (14 weeks)
    • 4 weeks University and Chadsgrove led teaching
    • 8 weeks in School Teacher Training
    • 2 weeks ITAP (intensive training and practice)
    • 1 week half-term
  • Term 2
  • Term 3

Course Highlights

  • Integrating theoretical and practical training: students learn about seminal and contemporary research and theory and how to apply in a classroom context
  • Preparation for generalist primary teaching through engagement with aspects of the PGCE Primary (QTS) programme
  • Develop additional expertise in the learning and teaching of children with SEND
  • Learn from specialist tutors and experts in partnership schools
  • High levels of support to help students make a difference
  • Ofsted (2024) said in their recent report 'Trainees are overwhelmingly positive about their experiences. Many trainees commented on how their personal tutors get to know them as individuals and genuinely care about their well-being'
  • Ofsted 'Outstanding' provider
  • Gain 80 credits towards a Master's degree, propelling educational aspirations forward

Course Delivery

The programme prepares students for their teaching career through diverse methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and extensive school-based experience.


  • Assignments that link practice and research
  • Opportunities within modules to practise teaching techniques
  • Targeted feedback on core teaching skills

Module Information

All PGCE Primary SEND (QTS) students take 6 compulsory modules, each worth 10 or 20 credits.


Module Title Credits
Primary School Studies (SEND) 2: Inclusion in the Primary SEND Curriculum 20
Teaching Experience 2 (Primary SEND) 10
Teaching Experience 1 (Primary) 10
Intensive Teaching and Practice 1 and 2 (Primary) 10
Intensive Teaching and Practice 3 and 4 (Primary) 10
Primary School Studies 1: Planning and Teaching 20

Entry Requirements

All applicants to the PGCE Primary SEND (QTS) must hold a degree from a UK Higher Education Institution. Normally, this should be a 2:2 or above.


  • GCSE Mathematics (Grade 4/C or Above) and English and Science (Grade 4/C or above) or equivalent qualifications
  • Complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before taking up a place
  • Complete relevant checks to ensure students have the health and physical capacity to teach
  • Agree to abide by the University of Birmingham Code of Professional Conduct and Fitness to Practise

English Language Requirements

If students are international, they will need to demonstrate they have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.


  • IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band
  • TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
  • Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
  • Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
  • LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

Fees and Scholarships

  • £9,535
  • The University will charge the maximum approved tuition fee per year.
  • Scholarship information is available for various countries.

Application Process

  • Course Code: Z638
  • Apply online through DfE Apply.
  • The final application deadline for all PGCE programmes is 31st July 2026.

Career Opportunities

The University of Birmingham's PGCE Primary SEND QTS Teacher Training course is highly esteemed across Birmingham and the West Midlands.


  • Exceptional record of student employment post-course completion
  • Alumni advancing to roles as Primary SENCO, subject and phase lead, Heads of Departments, Senior Managers, advisers, and university tutors
  • Comprehensive career services and support for students, preparing them to excel in the teaching profession.
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