Course Info The Independent Postgraduate Certificate in Education for Independent Schools and Academies has been developed in close consultation with the Headmasters’ and Headmistresses’ Conference (HMC). Since 2002 it has been offering teachers in the independent sector, who have not undergone a period of formal teacher training, the opportunity to participate in a structured programme of professional development. This course is for those teaching in Primary, Preparatory and Senior Schools, as well as all Academies. If you would prefer to qualify with QTS and you teach in a school in England, please look at either our Primary, Prep or Secondary PGCE with QTS courses. We also offer a Scottish PGCE leading to full registration. If you are teaching in Scotland, you may find it preferable to apply for this programme. The course consists of an individualised programme of school-based training, combined with three three-day residentials where trainees will attend lectures, workshops, seminars and discussion groups led by experts in their field. The course encourages reflective practice, focusing on the subjects being taught, the craft of the classroom and the underpinning educational values of the teacher. How does this differ from the PGCE with QTS? It does not require a second school placement, and there is no requirement to attend an interview or to undertake professional skills assessments. You can have fewer teaching hours on your timetable than is required for QTS. In addition, you do not need to teach across two key stages – which is a requirement of QTS.