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Entry Requirements

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... a lively mix of trainees, from different backgrounds, cultures and parts of the country, who are committed to providing excellence within the UK state maintained school sector.


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Academic Qualifications

  • A minimum of a 2.1 (upper second) class honours degree
  • All applicants require GCSE qualifications in English Language and Mathematics (minimum grade C/4) at the point of application
  • Primary applicants also require a mainstream Science GCSE. 
  • We expect most candidates to hold three A levels (or an equivalent qualification eg. BTEC) at an average of at least grade B.

We will consider applicants holding overseas qualifications that are equivalent to those described above (as confirmed by ENIC).  We may consider applicants with a 2.2 if they hold a subsequent higher degree qualification, but please contact the PGCE Admissions Office for advice before you apply.

If English is not your first language you must hold an Academic IELTS qualification with a minimum score of 7 in each element.  Unfortunately, the OCR Adult Literacy and Numeracy qualifications are not considered the equivalent of GCSEs. We also do not accept, or offer, equivalency tests.

Secondary Courses: your degree should be in your chosen subject specialism, or a closely related subject with at least 50% of your degree modules in the relevant subject.

Primary Courses: we accept applicants from any degree subject background, including psychology, education and childhood studies.


PGCE Faculty class

Personal Qualities

  • A desire to teach and enthuse young people
  • Commitment to state education
  • Strong subject-based academic background
  • Good communication skills
  • Experience working with young people
  • Flexibility and humour
  • Energy, perseverance and stamina
  • Ability to work collaboratively
  • Ability to learn and act on advice
  • Commitment to the welfare and safeguarding of children and young people

When writing your personal statement, think about the skills and qualities needed to be an effective teacher and how your own experiences have helped you to develop these. Use examples from your degree and recent work experience.


PGCE Schoolroom class

School Experience


Applicants are not required to have prior experience in a school, but we do recommend that you spend some time in school, if possible, to help you decide if teaching is right for you. Those considering your application will be looking for evidence of commitment to, and enthusiasm for, working with children and young people. You should consider how you might demonstrate this in your personal statement and be prepared to discuss during an interview.


Books

Background Reading

Applicants are expected to demonstrate a strong level of knowledge about the National Curriculum and to be able to discuss current issues affecting teaching.

Read the Times Educational Supplement or the the Guardian Education Supplement to keep up to date with changes in government policy and education.

Brush up on you academic writing skills if you haven't been in higher education recently - the Cambridge PGCE is a Masters level course. The Good Writing Guide for Education Students(SAGE Study Skills Series) by Dominic Wyse is a good place to start if you need a little extra help.


Please be aware that competition is strong for places on the PGCE courses and meeting our minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection for interview.

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