Course summary

*with a recommendation for QTS Our one-year Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) prepares you to teach the secondary school science curriculum for the 11-16 age range.  Science is crucial to the development and future prospects of children. Becoming a teacher is transformative. You can inspire the next generation of scientists and ensure all children value their science education. Developing scientific skills, curiosity and literacy enables children to understand the world around them so they can make informed decisions about their lives and have a say in society. University sessions are led by specialist tutors and supported by technicians. You will explore theory informed, up-to-date and practical teaching practices in our school-styled laboratories. You will learn how to plan, assess, reflect on and use research to continually improve your practice in a supportive environment. You’ll also develop your teacher persona, ability to manage behaviour for learning and support children’s wellbeing. Some sessions are specific to chemistry, but the majority occur in mixed specialism groups. Just like science departments in schools, we explore the connections across the sciences and share expertise. There will also be guest sessions with alumni and experts from a variety of organisations. Past sessions include speakers from the Institute of Physics and Royal Society of Chemistry. The course is taught by highly experienced, research active, subject experts and supported by an excellent team of science technicians. Features and benefits

• Employability - You’ll have the skills and experience to teach all three sciences to GCSE and your specialism, biology, chemistry or physics, potentially up to A-level.

• Teaching experience - You will spend at least the minimum Department for Education (DfE) required time (approximately 120 days) on placements, gaining experience in mainstream secondary schools.

• Postgraduate credits - When you graduate, you’ll achieve 60 masters level credits (this is one-third of a masters degree). You can put these towards a masters degree to help you develop your new career..

• Partnerships - We have partnerships with over 500 schools, colleges and educational organisations, meaning we are able to provide students with a range of school experiences.

• Research-led teaching - Many of our staff are active researchers in education and their research influences our programmes. The School of Education at Manchester Met ranks in the UK’s top 10 research power in education (Research Excellence Framework, 2021) and the Institute of Children’s Futures launched in November 2024 which brings together academics, policy makers and practitioners to improve the lives of young people.

• Student support - You’ll receive guidance throughout your journey, including academic support from subject tutors and professional mentoring while on placements, helping you develop the skills and knowledge to meet Teachers’ Standards.