Physical Education Secondary (With QTS) Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)

Our education courses rank in the UK top 5 overall in their subject field (The Guardian University Guide, 2026).

This degree is designed to support graduates to become teaching professionals who can influence change, inspire young people and progress into a successful career in physical education. It develops student teachers who have a deep understanding of why, how and who they are teaching through a broad but deep curriculum. You put theory into practice through classroom experience, including a school placement every year, building your skillset ready for your wider professional role as a PE teacher.

Course accreditation

This course is accredited by the Department for Education (DfE) and successfully completing the course allows you to apply for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) as a PE teacher.

Facilities and specialist equipment

* A wide range of sports facilities including a sports arena; multi-use games areas; gym; sport science labs; and a range of sports pitches.

* Mock classrooms with specialist technology so you can watch and assess your lesson.

* Forest School where you can deepen your understanding of the long-term educational benefits of outdoor learning.

* Specialist sensory centre for practice in teaching SEND and early years pupils.

* Multimedia space for webinars and podcasting.

Career-powered links

As one of the largest providers of teacher education in the eastern region, we have well-established partnerships with more than 500 schools and other associated organisations, including lead training partnership agreements for closer collaborations.

We have a regular, on-going collaboration with the local education authorities for Bedford and Central Bedfordshire; and active links with the Association of Physical Education and the PSHE Association.

There are also opportunities with our official partners, Luton Town FC and Bedford Blues RFC and Foundation, as well as other sporting organisations such as MK Dons, Cricket East and Be Active.

Your student experience

We have a rich history and expertise in training PE teachers going back over 120 years.

You are taught by an experienced University teaching team at the cutting edge of theory and practice.

Undertake a school placement every year, working closely with our trained mentors, many of whom are alumni of this course.

Learn through classroom experience and practical application, developing the skills you need to teach a range of physical activities to young people aged 11-16 (16-19 with enhancement).

Benefit from opportunities to teach personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education as well as another curriculum subject.

Apply the scientific principles of physical education and sport to a range of practice activities including athletics, dance, games, gymnastics, swimming and outdoor, adventurous activities.

Develop your knowledge of teaching adventure activities through a field trip to an outdoor centre.

Benefit from our lead training partners' regular, on-going involvement including contributing to placements, course delivery, and on-campus visits, talks and masterclasses.

We work with Trauma-Informed Schools UK to ensure you are trained in creating settings where people feel safe, understood and are able to thrive. 

We have regular visits by professionals from schools and academy chains including teachers and senior leaders; schools that support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND); and local education authorities.

Sports industry visitors include representatives from the Football Association; Lawn Tennis Association; Rugby Football Union; and Cricket East.

Our Bedford campus is a small, thriving academic community where academic staff get to know you well.