Independent PGCE

Entry requirements

You must be employed as a teacher in an independent school in the UK (or abroad in the case of the International PGCE) and be in sole charge of a full size class for a minimum of 10 hours a week.

You will be expected to have a degree from a UK University or equivalent.

In addition, you must:

• Obtain the commitment from your school to provide a suitable mentor.
• Show the physical and mental fitness to teach.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Course outline

The Independent Postgraduate Certificate of Education has been developed in close consultation with the Headmasters’ and Headmistresses’ Conference (HMC). Since 2002 it has been offering teachers in the independent sector, who have not undergone a period of formal teacher training, the opportunity to participate in a structured programme of professional development.

Course content

The PGCE is a 37-week school-based course, during which time you will work under the guidance of a mentor and receive weekly tutorials to review progress and set targets. It is available in most subjects and to all age levels. There are three residentials (eight days overall) to attend and these are supplemented by a weekly programme on the University’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). You will be assigned a University tutor who visits once per term to assess your progress and guide your development. You will be assessed by both your mentor and your tutor and there are three assignments to complete.

For teachers undertaking their first year of teaching we highly recommend your participation in our Ab Initio course in late August as an addition to the PGCE. This will provide you with some basic knowledge and skills to start teaching.

Fees and funding

Please visit our website for latest information relating to out tuition fees, scholarships and bursaries.