Birmingham City University

Overview

The PGCE in Secondary Design and Technology (Food, Textiles and Product Design) at Birmingham City University is a comprehensive one-year, full-time teacher training program designed for those aspiring to become secondary school teachers. This program equips you with the skills necessary to effectively plan, teach, and assess design and technology lessons while gaining invaluable classroom experience through school placements.

What you'll study

The PGCE program combines theoretical learning with practical teaching experience in partner schools. The curriculum is structured as follows:

• Secondary Professional Studies (20 credits) – Focuses on professional practice, teaching standards, and reflective development.
• Secondary Subject Pedagogy: Design and Technology (20 credits) – Teaches effective methods for instructing design and technology, including practical skills, safety protocols, and student progression.
• Professional Enquiry (20 credits) – Encourages enquiry-based learning to support reflective practices and evidence-informed teaching.
• School Experience 1 (0 credits) – An initial placement to help build teaching experience and establish classroom routines.
• School Experience 2 (0 credits) – A subsequent placement aimed at consolidating your teaching and assessment abilities.

Electives / Additional Learning

Students can engage in elective opportunities that enhance their development as design and technology educators, tailored to their specific interests and placement requirements.

Teaching Practice Requirement

Completion of the program is contingent upon meeting placement expectations and demonstrating professional teaching competence throughout the year.

Entry requirements

Academic Background

• A good degree (minimum 2:2; 2:1 or First preferred) from a UK higher education institution or an equivalent qualification.
• At least 50% of your degree should be in a food-related, textiles-related, or product design-related subject area.

English Language

• IELTS: Overall score of 6.0 (or equivalent).
• TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 80 (or equivalent).
• If invited for an interview, you may be required to complete a written test to assess your English proficiency.

Mathematics and English (GCSE or equivalent)

• GCSE grade C or above (or equivalent) in both English language and mathematics prior to enrollment.
• If you do not have these qualifications, consider equivalency testing before applying.

Documents Typically Required

• Degree certificate(s) and academic transcripts
• Proof of English language test results (if applicable)
• GCSE certificates (for English language and mathematics)

Career Prospects

Graduates of the PGCE in Secondary Design and Technology are well-prepared to pursue careers as secondary school teachers, specializing in design and technology education. The program opens opportunities in various educational settings, equipping you with the skills needed to inspire and educate the next generation of designers and technologists.