PGCE Postgraduate Certificate Secondary Education (QTS) - Geography

Course overview
Start your teaching journey with our specialist programme. Develop your love of teaching and learning Geography to inspire children and young people from 11-18, through close partnership with our school network.
The Geography PGCE (QTS) programme is designed to develop your understanding of what teaching Geography is and what teaching Geography does, while enabling you to use research to make informed decisions about your practice in, and beyond, the classroom. Deepening your understanding of teaching and learning, you will build a strong foundation as a teacher which will support you to pursue a fulfilling career in the field. Upon successful completion of the course, you will have the opportunity to return for part-time study and complete a Masters in Teaching Studies.
Course highlights
We excel in teacher education by combining theoretical knowledge and practical experience in our PGCE Geography programme, leading to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). This course offers 80 credits towards further study, allowing graduates to pursue a Master's degree such as the MA in Teaching Studies. The course is taught in collaboration with our partnership schools integrating academic rigour with practical , along with the opportunity for advanced qualifications contribute to make the University of Birmingham a leader in teacher education.
Integrated Theoretical and Practical Training: Combines the learning of cutting-edge educational theory with hands-on classroom experience
Unlock Your Teaching Career: Graduate with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), opening doors to exciting opportunities in secondary education
Learn from the Best: You'll be taught by a specialist Secondary Geography tutor to become an engaging, questioning and understanding teacher on the subject
Diverse Placement Opportunities: Explore a wide range of placements through our extensive network of partner schools
Career Support: Comprehensive career services and support for graduates entering the teaching profession
Ofsted (2024) said in their recent report 'Trainees are overwhelmingly positive about their experiences. Many trainees commented on how their personal tutors get to know them as individuals and genuinely care about their well-being'
Career opportunities
Our Geography Secondary Teacher Training course is highly esteemed across Birmingham and the West Midlands.
We are proud of our strong track record of student employment following course completion, with many of our alumni progressing to roles such as classroom teachers, Heads of Departments, Senior Leaders, and SENDCos within partnership schools, as well as other schools, both nationally and internationally. Our comprehensive career services and support equip you with the skills and confidence needed to excel in the teaching profession and beyond.

A strong academic record at A level or equivalent in relevant subjects, along with a strong degree (usually a minimum of 2:2) relevant to the subject taught. In all cases we will be looking at the relevance of your degree, other qualifications and experiences related to your proposed teaching subject in assessing academic suitability.

You must also have:

• GCSE Mathematics and English (Grade 4/C or above) or equivalent qualifications, which will be a condition of any offer if not already achieved (equivalency tests will be accepted but only from Equivalency Testing)
• completed an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before taking up a place
• completed relevant checks to ensure you have the health and physical capacity to teach
• agree to abide by the University of Birmingham Code of Professional Conduct and Fitness to Practise