PGCE Post-14 Further Education and Skills Postgraduate Certificate in Education - PGCE

This new Level 7 PGCE course is designed for anyone who is teaching post-14 learners, paid or voluntary, in a further education (FE) setting, training establishment, special school, academy, prison or young offender institution.

This qualification is awarded by The University of Derby and taught either full-time (1 year) or part-time (2 years).

About the course

The teaching will build on your experiences, enabling you to put new ideas into practice. The course is also suitable for those who are trainers as part of their role.

Course Structure:

• Full-time for one academic year:

• Two days per week at the Nottingham College Teacher Training Hub at Basford campus.

• Two days per week on teaching placement

• An eight-week block placement in February

• Wide range of learning approaches, including practical teaching, workshops, presentations, blended learning and independent study

• Academic expectations at Levels 6 and 7 through written and practical assignments


Teaching and assessment:

You can expect a variety of teaching strategies and methods are used to maximise your learning: practical teaching experience, presentations, workshops, one-to-one, whole group teaching, small group teaching, blended learning and independent learning.

As a graduate, you’ll be expected to demonstrate sound intellectual and academic skills at levels 6 and 7 through a range of written and practical module assignments. The main assessment methods you will encounter are observation of professional practice, group and individual presentations as well as formal academic writing.

Entry Requirements:

• An Undergraduate Honours degree - at Lower Second (2:2) or above in a subject relevant to the FE and Skills sector

• GCSE English Language and Maths at grade 4 (C) or above (pending results and approved equivalency tests accepted)

• Level 2 English and Maths equivalency accepted where eligible under QTLS requirements


Additional Requirements

A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check will be required before starting the programme.

Progression opportunities

The PGCE Post-14 Further Education and Skills gives you a real head start in your teaching career. On completion of the course, you will be eligible to apply for Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status via the Society for Education and Training. Valued by employers, QTLS status demonstrates your commitment, skills and knowledge, adding real substance to your CV.

Our PGCE also puts you on the fast track to achieving a master's degree, providing you with 60 credits at master's level.