University of Leicester

What you'll study

The programme combines school-based professional practice with university-led academic study to develop classroom expertise, subject pedagogy and professional understanding. Core areas include planning and delivering effective lessons, behaviour management, assessment for learning, and inclusive approaches for learners with diverse needs. You will study subject-specific pedagogy modules that focus on curriculum, progression and subject knowledge development for the secondary phase.

Assessment is through a mixture of assessed teaching practice in partnership schools, reflective professional assignments, subject-specific tasks and observed lesson evaluations. The programme typically includes substantial placements in at least two different schools, giving experience of different age ranges, contexts and inspection frameworks. Throughout the course you will receive individual mentoring from experienced classroom teachers and tutorial support from university tutors.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need an undergraduate honours degree in the subject they wish to teach or a closely related discipline. Degrees are considered alongside evidence of subject knowledge and experience working with young people. You will be expected to demonstrate GCSE-level proficiency in English and mathematics (or recognised equivalents) as part of eligibility for QTS.

Admissions decisions also take into account references, an enhanced criminal record check, satisfactory health clearance and evidence of recent or relevant experience in school or youth settings. Some subjects may require stronger subject knowledge evidence; the admissions team will advise on additional checks or subject knowledge enhancement where needed.

Career prospects

Graduates who successfully complete the PGCE with QTS are qualified to teach in secondary schools. Typical first posts are classroom teacher roles covering the relevant key stages for your subject specialism. Career progression often follows routes into departmental leadership, curriculum enrichment roles or pastoral leadership such as head of year.

Many graduates pursue further professional development such as National Professional Qualifications (NPQs), subject-specialist CPD, master's level study in education or leadership, or move into roles in teacher education, educational consultancy, assessment and curriculum design. The programme is also appropriate preparation for international teaching posts where a UK initial teacher qualification is recognised.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester offers a school-centred PGCE delivered in partnership with a wide network of local and regional schools, providing diverse placement experiences across urban and rural settings. Programme tutors are experienced classroom practitioners and university researchers who bring current evidence-based approaches to professional studies and subject pedagogy.

Students benefit from structured mentorship, a dedicated school partnerships team that coordinates placements, and access to the university's library and professional development resources. The course emphasises reflective practice, subject-specific teaching skills and inclusive education, ensuring you develop both the practical classroom expertise and the academic grounding valued by employers in the education sector.