Initial Teacher Education (PGCE secondary)

Our PGCE secondary teacher training will open up an exciting new journey for students who want to train to be a teacher. At the School of Education we offer a wide range of subjects, and your teacher training will combine theory with practice, whichever route you choose.

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.

The two PGCE routes

Working with local schools, colleges and academies, we two routes in secondary teaching.  

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.
  • You will be required to organise the placement in the primary school yourself.

Lead Partner PGCE - school-led teacher training

  • you are recruited by a local school;
  • your primary school placement will be arranged in advance by your Lead Partner provider;
  • you will have the full support of the university, including a university tutor and access to all facilities;
  • you will have a say as a member of the school in which you are placed.