Coventry University

What you'll study

This programme combines practical school-based training with academic study to meet the UK professional standards for QTS. You will follow a curriculum that typically includes:

• Professional Practice and School Placements – substantial in-school placements in at least two contrasting settings where you plan and teach, receive mentor feedback and are assessed against the Teachers' Standards.
• Subject Pedagogy – modules focused on teaching methods, curriculum planning and assessment strategies for your chosen phase (primary or secondary) and, for secondary trainees, your specialist subject.
• Assessment for Learning and Curriculum Design – formative and summative assessment approaches, use of data to inform teaching, and designing coherent sequences of learning.
• Behaviour Management and Classroom Environment – strategies to create inclusive, safe and productive learning environments, including positive behaviour approaches and restorative practice.
• Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) and Inclusion – adapting planning and resources, differentiation, and multi-agency working to support diverse learners.
• Safeguarding and Professional Responsibilities – statutory duties, child protection, professional ethics and collaborative working with parents and carers.
• Reflective Practice and Research-Informed Teaching – engaging with educational research, carrying out small-scale enquiry projects and critically reflecting on your classroom practice.

The award is at graduate certificate level and is achieved by a combination of assessed school-based outcomes and university assignments that demonstrate your academic understanding of teaching and learning.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements are designed to ensure you are prepared for the demands of initial teacher training. Typical requirements include:

• A UK honours degree or equivalent; many applicants hold a 2:2 or above, although programmes consider the whole application and professional experience.
• GCSE or recognised equivalent at grade C/4 or above in English and mathematics; for primary trainees, a science qualification at this level is normally required or evidence of competence in scientific understanding.
• For secondary applicants, a degree in or substantial evidence of subject knowledge for the subject you wish to teach; universities may require proof of subject knowledge through subject knowledge enhancement if needed.
• Successful fitness to teach checks, an enhanced DBS (criminal record) check, and satisfactory references.
• Demonstrated school experience or evidence of working with children and young people is usually expected; interviews and observed teaching activities form part of the selection process.

Specific courses may have additional requirements; applicants are advised to check the precise conditions for the primary or secondary route they are applying to.

Career prospects

Graduates who complete the PGCE with QTS typically progress into classroom teaching roles in state and independent schools. The qualification provides a clear route into the profession and can also enhance prospects for:

• Subject leadership or phase coordination roles within schools (for example, head of department or curriculum lead).
• Further professional development such as National Professional Qualifications (NPQs), master's-level study or leadership training.
• Specialist roles including special educational needs coordination, behaviour support, or English as an additional language (EAL) provision.
• Alternative careers in education such as educational consultancy, curriculum development, inspection, or roles in charities and organisations that support children and young people.
• Opportunities to teach internationally, where QTS is recognised or where the PGCE’s pedagogical training is valued.

Why study at Coventry University

Coventry University’s teacher training emphasises strong partnerships with local and regional schools to provide varied, high-quality placement experiences across different age phases and contexts. Trainees benefit from:

• Experienced university tutors and school-based mentors who support evidence-based practice and professional growth.
• A structured programme that integrates school placements with campus-based seminars, subject workshops and opportunities to engage with educational research.
• Access to university resources, professional networks and continuing professional development pathways to support progression beyond induction year teaching.
• A focus on inclusive practice and preparing teachers to work with diverse classrooms, supported by applied SEND and safeguarding training.

Overall, the PGCE with QTS at Coventry University is designed to produce reflective, resilient and classroom-ready teachers who can meet statutory professional standards and adapt to the evolving demands of education.