PGCE Secondary Chemistry with QTS

In the modern world, knowledge of science is essential for everyone. Everything we know about the universe, from photosynthesis to the structure of the atom, results from advances in science.

Delivered in the Environmental Laboratory in the IQ building, our secondary Chemistry programme supports you in using your passion and expertise for Chemistry. It is not just a practical subject, teaching chemistry demands your creativity to inspire young people and nurture their curiosity. It will engage all your professional skills and propel you to a fulfilling career.

Studying alongside student teachers from the Science and Technology area of learning, you will prepare to teach general science and specialise in Chemistry to the GCSE and A-level.

This exciting new curriculum will give you the freedom to be creative and work with your fellow students in the field of computing and other technology to promote STEM subjects.

Schools need more specialist chemistry teachers than ever before, therefore employability and promotional prospects are excellent.

Career Opportunities

Yr Athrofa has excellent graduate employment rates with 99% of graduates going into employment or further study.

Many schools and college departments, both locally and nationally, are staffed with several of our teachers and many have gone on to forge successful teaching careers at strategic, professional and management levels at home and abroad.

Our PGCE graduates usually remain in close touch with Yr Athrofa as they make their careers in the teaching profession and they often become subject mentors on the programme. This creates a very strong, sustainable professional network of teachers, which is a rich source of continuing professional development.

Recently our PGCE Art and Design graduates have gone on to work as Secondary Teachers in many independent and state schools in Wales, England and abroad including (but not limited) to: Judgemeadow Community College (Leicestershire), Cwmafan Junior School (Port Talbot), Howard School (Rainham, Kent), Amman Valley School (Ammanford), Bridgend County Borough Council, Olchfa Comprehensive School (Swansea), Livanhoe College (Ashby de la Zouch), Ysgol Gyfun Ystalyfera (Ystalyfera).

Applicants are required to hold a good honours degree (2:2 minimum) in an area related to chosen secondary subject. GCSE qualifications - Grade B or above in GCSE English Language OR English Literature and GCSE Mathematics. Student teachers studying to teach in Welsh medium schools will also need a GCSE grade B or above in Welsh OR Welsh Literature (first language). Equivalence workshops and tests are available for those with Grade C GSCE in English Language, Mathematics and Welsh. A-Levels/Level 3 Vocational Qualifications - If applicants do not hold an undergraduate degree in a curriculum subject, successful study at appropriate higher levels must be evidenced. Work Experience - You should be aware of the realities of being a teacher and life in a classroom and so we ask for recent and relevant experience in a secondary educational setting. This may be through employment or volunteering in a school and should be for a minimum period of two weeks. Gaining experience in a school classroom will help to strengthen your application and better critically inform your personal statement. It will also prepare you for our selection process and give you some experience from which you can draw in your interview.