Initial Teacher Education (PGCE secondary)

Our PGCE for secondary teaching was awarded 'Outstanding' in the 2018 OFSTED inspection, so you know you'll receive excellent training to enable you to inspire the next generation

We work with local schools, colleges and academies to offer you two routes in secondary teaching.  Applications for 2025 entry open are open.

Our PGCE team are happy to help with any queries you may have about applying to study for your PGCE. 

Please contact us by email in the first instance at ed-pgce@bristol.ac.uk. We will respond to your query as soon as possible. 

University PGCE - the traditional teaching route

  • You receive training at the university and have placements in at least 2 schools;
  • You are closely supported by school mentors and your university tutor during this time.

Lead Partner PGCE - school-led teacher training

  • You are recruited by a local school;
  • You know where your placements will be in advance;
  • You will have the full support of the university, including a university tutor and access to all facilities.

Each route is designed to help you become an outstanding subject practitioner and enable you to work well in a range of schools. Compare the different routes to decide which one is right for you.

Who the PGCE is for

If you have a passion for your subject and you want to inspire the next generation, teaching could be the career for you. Our PGCE programmes are demanding and hands-on but you’ll be supported and guided to become an excellent qualified teacher. 

To qualify fully as a teacher, you will continue to train for a further two years in your first teaching post. There is a new induction programme called the Early Career Framework, which all Early Career Teachers will have the opportunity to follow during their first two years as a teacher.

We welcome applicants from any backgrounds including graduates from Bristol, graduates from other universities and career changers. We want to see all of our students become excellent teachers and future leaders.

Why choose teacher training at the University of Bristol?

  • Top 5 Good Teacher Training guide 2017
  • 'Outstanding Provider Status'
  • High employability rates
  • Great reviews by our current and former students
  • Designated specialist tutor
  • 11-18 qualification
  • Strong partnerships with schools
  • Unique opportunities to consider global issues in your teaching
  • Placement in a primary school before the programme starts to provide you with crucial context
  • Opportunity to gain experience in a school for students with special educational needs and/or disabilities.

Apply to study at Bristol

Outstanding Ofsted Inspection 2018

Our initial teacher education programmes have been ranked as outstanding in every category by Ofsted.

Subjects

You will receive an excellent teacher training that combines theory with practice whichever route you choose. We offer teacher training for the following subjects.

School Experience Days

Find out more about Lighthouse Learning Partnership School Experience Days for prospective trainees.

International students

Important information specifically for international students who have applied for or are holding an offer for the PGCE.

Black Bristol PGCE Scholarship Programme

Find out more about additional funding available for Black and Mixed-Black Heritage UK applicants

Contact us

Initial Teacher Education (PGCE and Lead Partner) Office

Phone: +44 (0) 117 455 9223 We are partly working remotely and recommend that you contact us by email in the first instance
Email: ed-pgce@bristol.ac.uk

School of Education 

University of Bristol 
35 Berkeley Square 
Bristol, BS8 1JA

Apply to study at Bristol

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