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    PGCE in Further Education and Skills (Part-time) - Level 7

    Course Overview

    This nationally recognised programme will enhance your employability as a teacher in the Further Education and Skills Sector (post 16 and adult education – PLEASE NOTE we do NOT currently offer teacher training for the Primary or Secondary sectors).

    It leads to the award of a Postgraduate Certificate in Education, at Level 7 or Professional Graduate Certificate in Education at Level 6 by the University of Plymouth.

    On successful completion, it provides the opportunity to independently pursue Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status which could then be used to teach in other educational sectors outside of FE and Skills.

    Modules may include:

    • Learners, Learning and Teaching
    • Subject Specialist Teaching and Managing the Learning Environment
    • Teaching and the Curriculum
    • Professional Practice.
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    Course Overview

    Course Overview

    This nationally recognised programme will enhance your employability as a teacher in the Further Education and Skills Sector (post 16 and adult education – PLEASE NOTE we do NOT currently offer teacher training for the Primary or Secondary sectors).

    It leads to the award of a Postgraduate Certificate in Education, at Level 7 or Professional Graduate Certificate in Education at Level 6 by the University of Plymouth.

    On successful completion, it provides the opportunity to independently pursue Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status which could then be used to teach in other educational sectors outside of FE and Skills.

    Modules may include:

    • Learners, Learning and Teaching
    • Subject Specialist Teaching and Managing the Learning Environment
    • Teaching and the Curriculum
    • Professional Practice.

    Assessment

    Assessment Methods

    You will work closely with other students on the programme and colleagues in your placement setting, learning together and from one another, with peer support playing an important part of the programme organisation and learning. Your teaching observations are carried out by course tutors and subject specialist mentors in an atmosphere of professional evaluation and support. The course is assessed through a range of methods including; written coursework, professional portfolio development, 150 hours mandatory direct teaching practice, observed practice and a Viva (oral professional discussion). Progression Opportunities on completion of the course could lead to full-time or part-time employment in the Further Education and Skills sector. Recent graduates have gone on to work in a variety of Further and Higher Education institutions regionally and nationally, and staff training roles within the National Health Service.

    Entry Requirements and Progression

    Progression

    On successful completion of this course, you will be able to apply for QTLS status, which will enable you to teach in a wide range of further education and skills settings.

    Entry Requirements

    Typically entrants will possess:

    • Bachelors or Masters degree in a relevant subject (if you do not hold this level of qualification please see our Level 5 Certificate in Education offering as an alternative Teacher Training route).
    • English and maths qualifications at Level 2 e.g. GCSE grade 4; grade C or equivalent or Functional skills Level 2 -Pass
    • Securing an appropriate professional practice placement to include a minimum of 150 hours of direct teaching practice, plus a minimum 100 hours additional non-direct professional practice over the duration of the course. Support with exploring placement options is available at the interview stage.
    • Identification of a suitable subject specialist mentor in place, prior to the commencement of the course.
    • You will be required to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, register with the Independent Safeguarding Authority and complete a criminal convictions self-declaration form.

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    16th October 2025