Edinburgh Napier University

What you'll study

This one-year postgraduate Graduate Diploma focuses on the knowledge, skills and professional attributes required to teach chemistry at secondary level. Core study combines subject-specific pedagogy, curriculum and assessment, inclusive classroom practice, and school-based professional experience.

• Subject Pedagogy for Chemistry: learning theory and practical strategies for teaching chemical concepts (atomic structure, bonding, energetics, kinetics, equilibrium), designing effective practical work, using demonstrations and modelling to support conceptual understanding.
• Curriculum, Assessment and Standards: study of the national curricula relevant to Scotland and other UK jurisdictions, assessment design, formative and summative assessment, interpreting qualifications frameworks and standards for secondary science.
• Classroom Management and Inclusive Practice: behaviour management, differentiation to meet diverse learner needs, literacy and numeracy across the curriculum, supporting additional support needs and promoting equity in science education.
• Professional Practice (School Placements): substantial, supervised placements in partner secondary schools where trainees plan and deliver chemistry lessons, receive mentor feedback and build a professional portfolio.
• Science Practical Skills and Risk Management: safe planning and delivery of practical work, risk assessment for laboratory activities, and ensuring health and safety in classroom and laboratory contexts.
• Reflective Professionalism and Professional Standards: meeting professional teacher standards, ethical practice, continuing professional development and preparation for registration with the relevant teaching authority.

The programme typically integrates campus-based lectures, workshops and laboratory sessions with two significant school placements. Assessment uses a combination of practice-based observations, lesson planning, portfolios, essays and subject knowledge assessments.

Entry requirements

• An undergraduate degree with substantial chemistry content (usually a UK honours degree or equivalent). Applicants with degrees in related scientific subjects may be considered where subject knowledge is sufficient for secondary chemistry teaching.
• Evidence of subject knowledge and competence in chemistry; some programmes require a subject knowledge assessment or interview to confirm suitability.
• Previous experience working with young people (such as volunteer work, tutoring or school support) is normally required or strongly recommended.
• Satisfactory PVG/DBS disclosure and background checks, and satisfactory health clearance, in line with statutory requirements for working with children and young people.
• Proficiency in English: applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet recognised English language requirements.

Selection typically involves application screening and an interview, during which applicants may be asked to give a short teaching demonstration or present evidence of subject knowledge and classroom potential.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to seek qualified teacher status and take up posts teaching chemistry (or general science at lower secondary levels) in secondary schools across Scotland and elsewhere in the UK. Career paths include:

• Secondary school chemistry teacher, delivering national curricula and preparing students for national qualifications.
• Curriculum development and subject leadership roles (e.g. Head of Chemistry/Science department) after gaining classroom experience.
• Education support roles such as laboratory technician, science education officer or outreach coordinator in museums, colleges and industry partnerships.
• Further study or professional development leading to roles in educational research, specialist teaching, or senior leadership within schools.

The programme emphasises employability through school partnerships, mentoring and support in applying for probation-year posts and professional registration.

Why study at Edinburgh Napier University

• Edinburgh Napier has established partnerships with local and regional schools, providing a range of placement settings and strong mentor support so trainees gain practical classroom experience across different contexts.
• The university combines science facilities and laboratory resources with a school of education experienced in teacher training, enabling a balance of subject knowledge development and contemporary pedagogy.
• Modules are designed with a focus on inclusion, Curriculum for Excellence awareness and transferable classroom skills, preparing graduates for the realities of secondary teaching in Scotland and the UK.
• Students benefit from professional development opportunities, career support services and networks that assist transition into probationary teaching posts and longer-term professional pathways.