Program Overview

Overview of the PGCE Early Years Program

The PGCE Early Years program at the University of Reading is designed for individuals seeking to become early years leaders, ensuring children get a positive start in life. This program is offered by the Institute of Education, one of the UK's leading providers of teacher training.

Program Structure

• The program offers two pathways:
  • Graduate Entry (GE): Full-time for 12 months, now closed for new applications for September 2026 entry.
  • Graduate Employment-based (GEB): Part-time for 12 months, available for those already employed in an early years setting in the UK.
• On each pathway, students train to teach early education and care across the birth-to-five age range, gaining 60 master's credits and Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS).

How You'll Learn

• Learning is achieved through a series of lectures, workshops, tutor- and student-led seminars, and placements.
• Activities include:
  • Group tasks
  • Individual tutorials
  • Work-based learning activities
  • Presenting work to peers and academics
  • Self-guided independent study
  • Reviewing relevant legislation and statutory frameworks
  • Gaining practical experience in different settings

Learning Environment

• The Institute of Education provides an exciting and nurturing environment.
• Tutors offer regular guidance and support.
• The Student Support Team offers counselling services and wellbeing information.

Partnership with Schools

• The course is designed in collaboration with school partnerships.
• Long-standing partnerships with hundreds of child-based settings.
• Excellent relationships with partners, with most Berkshire schools employing at least one University of Reading graduate.

Placements

• Placements meet individual needs and complement previous experience.
• Invaluable experience in different settings, including potential children's centres.
• Fully supported and closely monitored by University tutors.

Facilities

• The Institute of Education is based at the historic London Road campus, which has undergone a £30m refurbishment.
• Access to a world-class education centre and the Learning Hub, which contains extensive teaching resources.

Climate and Sustainability Education

• Training is provided to incorporate climate education into teaching.
• Part of the National Climate Education Action Plan.
• Learning about climate change, climate justice, and translating knowledge into action.

Research

• 98% of the University's research is of international standing (REF 2021).
• The University of Reading is renowned for its world-leading work in climate science.

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

• Normally a good undergraduate honours degree (2:2 or above), or equivalent from a university outside the UK.
• GCSE Grade C (or 4) or above in English Language, mathematics, and a science.
• Attendance at an interview as part of the application process.

Additional Requirements for the Graduate Employment-Based Pathway

• Trainees must be employed in an appropriate Early Years setting for at least 16 hours per week.
• Trainees must be working in settings that operate the Early Years Foundation Stage framework.

English Language Requirements

• IELTS: 6.5 overall with no element less than 6.0 (or equivalent).
• Pre-sessional English language Programme available for international students.

Structure

• Modules include:
  • Professional Studies: The Reflective Early Years Teacher
  • Families and Learning
  • Shared Implementation (Early Years)
  • Guided Implementation (Early Years)
  • Independent Implementation (Early Years)

Fees

• The degree is fully funded by the Department for Education (DfE).
• No fees for UK/Republic of Ireland and international students.

Careers

• Successful completion leads to the award of Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS).
• Qualified to work in a wide range of settings, including day care, nurseries, preschools, academies, free schools, out-of-school settings, children's centres, and home-based childcare settings.
• 99% of graduates in full-time employment or further study 15 months after graduation.