PGCE Primary Education

We offer two primary training routes, with both options preparing you to teach in UK primary schools (ages 5–11):

• PGCE starting in September
• School Direct starting in August

You will benefit from tutor visits through the year, a structured professional development tutorial programme, mentor/coordinator training, and access to web-based support, library resources and administrative support.

Find out what our students think

PGCE

You will undertake placements in two different schools, developing a broad experience of contrasting educational settings. In the autumn semester, you will begin to teach your subject and develop an understanding of all aspects of a school through a variety of tasks and observations. Over spring and summer, you will teach across the primary key stages.

Find out more

School Direct

We offer School Direct places in partnership with schools across Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Leicestershire. Induction takes place at the end of August, after which you will follow the academic calendar of your chosen school, spending one day a week at the University as part of our vibrant community of beginning teachers. You will also complete a placement in a second school that promotes collaborative learning and will have the opportunity to undertake placements in a range of educational settings.

Check School Direct availability

Key facts

• Our Initial Teacher Education provision has been rated 'Outstanding' by Ofsted

PGCE

This PGCE course will prepare you to teach in primary schools. Much of your time will be spent developing practical skills, with support available through University-based seminars and lectures. You will consider different teaching methods and theories of learning, using these to develop your school-based practice.

School Direct

Incorporating up to 60 masters-level credits and Qualified Teacher Status, as with the PGCE, the School Direct route will also prepare you to teach in primary schools. You can apply to a school of your choice and will spend most of the year based there.

Induction takes place at the end of August, after which you will follow the academic calendar of your chosen school. You will also complete a placement in a second school that promotes collaborative learning and broadens your experience.

You will spend one day a week at the University as part of our vibrant community of beginning teachers. You will consider different teaching methods and theories of learning, using these to develop your school-based practice. We offer parallel primary and secondary courses with opportunities for cross-phase working.

Core

The modules we offer are inspired by the research interests of our staff and as a result may change for reasons of, for example, research developments or legislation changes. This list is an example of typical modules we offer, not a definitive list.

UK students may be eligible to receive funding such as student loans, grants and teacher training bursaries. Please see the school website for further info on PGCE and School Direct routes. Information is also available from the Department for Education.

International and EU students

The International Office provides information and advice on funding your degree, living costs and working while you study, as well as country-specific resources.

As a newly qualified teacher you'll begin on a salary of at least £22,467, or £28,098 in inner London.

You may choose to put your 60 masters-level credits towards MA Education or MA Education (Flexible).

Career destinations for our graduates include counsellors, education advisers, language tutors, primary/secondary teachers and vocational/industrial trainers and instructors. A number of our graduates are already in employment while undertaking part-time study for professional development in their chosen career.

Employability and average starting salary

99.2% of postgraduates from the School of Education who were available for employment secured work or further study within six months of graduation. £22,797 was the average starting salary, with the highest being £44,000.*

* Known destinations of full-time home postgraduates 2015/16. Salaries are calculated based on the median of those in full-time paid employment within the UK.

Career and professional development

Whether you are looking to enhance your career prospects or develop your knowledge, a postgraduate degree from the University of Nottingham can help take you where you want to be.

Our award-winning Careers and Employability Service offers specialist support and guidance while you study and for life after you graduate. They will help you explore and plan your next career move, through regular events, employer-led skills sessions, placement opportunities and one-to-one discussions.