Course summary

PGCE Primary School Direct provides you with the practical training and theoretical knowledge required to become an outstanding primary school teacher. The course leads directly to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), with your progress audited against QTS Standards designed to ensure you graduate fully prepared to teach children aged 5 to 11 in the primary phase. The course offers high-quality training across the National Curriculum subjects, with support provided by University-based tutors and trained school-based tutors. Compared with non-Lead Programme Partner teacher trainees, you will benefit from additional time in school. Lead Programme Partners will deliver training on agreed National Curriculum subjects and aspects of professional studies. This content will be planned, organised and delivered by each Lead Programme Partner alliance. Lead Programme Partner alliances will also arrange your main teaching placements and most of the minor placements across the PGCE year. You will receive support and advice from a nominated Lead Programme Partner representative during your two main teaching placements. The University will maintain a quality assurance and training role during your time on the course. We work with numerous schools in Greater Manchester, many of whom are longstanding partners with us, to offer the Lead Programme Partner route into teaching. Lead Programme Partner allows schools to recruit and select their own trainees, using the University's PGCE recruitment criteria and systems. Applicants apply directly to the nominated lead school and interviews will be arranged directly with the candidates. Many trainees gain employment in our Lead Programme Partner schools, although this is not guaranteed, nor should it be expected. Lead Programme Partner follows a PGCE course structure but on a modified timetable including the school-based learning content, known as alliance-led days.