PGCert Secondary Physics with Science (with QTS) Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)

The following admission criteria applies:

• GCSE grade 4, or standard equivalent, in English and maths (qualifications in key and functional skills at level 2 are not equivalent to GCSEs in breadth of content). If you have not achieved the standard equivalent, you can sit an equivalency test at equivalencytesting.com
• a first degree (minimum 2:2) from a UK higher education institution or a recognised equivalent qualification. In exceptional cases if you do not have a 2:2 but are able to demonstrate suitable significant experience and/or further study you may be considered for the course
• ability to clearly demonstrate suitable subject level ability in the specialist subject area. This may be evidenced through suitable A level or Level 3 qualifications and the completion of a subject knowledge enhancement course or through the first-degree subject area (a transcript may be requested) or through work experience relating to the subject
• an understanding of the English national curriculum and experience working with it, or knowledge of how it works.
• ability to demonstrate capacity to meet the Teachers’ Standards
• verification of your identity either from your birth certificate, or acceptable, alternative document
• complete a satisfactory Occupational Health Clearance (further details will be provided)
• complete a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and enrol on the DBS update service
• complete a satisfactory suitability assessment in line with the requirements of Keeping Children Safe in Education. Any declarations made may be subject to a panel process before a decision can be made
• submission of two references. Referees must confirm that they know of no reason why you cannot work with children. Admissions will also check there aren’t any breaks in your employment or education history. References must be either academic (for example, your university tutor), professional (for example, your manager), school experience (for example, the headteacher of the school you have been working in) or character (for example, a mentor or someone you know from volunteering). If you’re still studying or graduated in the last five years, one of your references should be an academic reference. If you already work in a school, one of your references should be from your headteacher. If you graduated more than five years ago and do not work in a school, you can choose any combination of references. Ensure you provide a professional email address, not a personal email address for each reference
• successful completion of a formal interview and selection process.

The interview and selection process includes:

• a formal interview where you will be interviewed by two members of the teaching team
• a presentation about teaching a specific aspect of your subject specialism - you will have a choice of three topics
• a reflective and two scenario based tasks
• a data task.

Once you are invited to interview you will be given a link to the tasks. The tasks need to be completed and submitted before your interview.

For guidance, you will need approximately one hour for the interview. The tasks should be completed independently and should take you approximately one hour (reasonable adjustments will be considered if required). The process determines whether you possess the appropriate attitudes and values expected of a teacher. It also assesses whether you demonstrate intellectual and academic suitability for the course, including:

• fluent communication skills
• writing that reflects a high standard of accuracy
• an ability to use data and graphs to interpret information, identify patterns and trends to draw appropriate conclusions.

Upon completion of the interview and selection process, you will be asked to give an evaluation of the day, so that we can continually monitor and improve our processes.

IELTS entry requirements for international students is level 6.5. International qualifications will be checked for equivalency by the International Admissions team.

For general information please see our overview of entry requirements

International applicants can find out what qualifications they need by visiting Your Country

See our website for fees

Developing Learning, Teaching and Pedagogy

You gain a detailed overview of the core concepts underpinning learning, teaching and assessment, which is the starting point for becoming a professional teacher in the compulsory sector. You focus on the core pedagogical knowledge and skills that trainee teachers require.

Enhancing Learning, Teaching and Pedagogy

You enhance and extend approaches to learning, teaching and assessment in a variety of complex and challenging ways. You underpin your learning and teaching with evidence-informed strategies and develop the skills required to evaluate your own practice rigorously and consistently.

Professional Practices

Two school-based placements enable you to link theory to practice. On placement you are given increasing levels of responsibility and are expected to engage with all aspects of school life.

Subject Specialist Pedagogy in Physics with Science

This module enhances your subject knowledge, skills, and pedagogy in science education across secondary ages. It covers core transitions in science, from primary to higher education, with a focus on the 11-16 and Sixth Form curriculum. You examine science policy, assessment processes (including GCSE and A-level), and the integration of English, maths, and digital technologies in teaching. The module also develops your knowledge in physics (energy, forces, waves, electricity, space physics) and broader science content, including chemistry and biology. Additionally, you explore how to foster scientific thinking and address special educational needs in science teaching.

Subject Specialist Practice Project

You research an aspect of your subject specialism to develop pedagogic knowledge, and to explicitly link theory to practice in professional educational contexts.

Modules offered may vary.