Postgraduate Diploma in Education

The Postgraduate Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) Secondary is a programme designed to equip graduates who wish to pursue a career in teaching in the secondary sector with the skills and knowledge necessary for the role. 

The PGDE is an intensive full-time programme, divided equally between university-based and school-based activities, leading to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

In the university setting, students interact with peers from diverse educational backgrounds and learn various theories of pedagogy and instruction. 

This allows them to develop their understanding of subject contents, related development issues and how best to support individual pupil learning and progress.

While on placements in secondary school settings, international students gain practical experience working alongside experienced teachers and other stakeholders such as parents/carers. 

Through observation, guidance and support within the classroom setting they can gain knowledge of how best to manage student behaviour, deliver lessons effectively and where needed help improve pupils’ attainment across the curriculum.

Furthermore, they will have opportunities to collaborate with staff on whole school issues or initiatives concerning creative approaches for student engagement or wider roles relating to participation in extracurricular activities.

Types of Post Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE)

The Professional Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) offers two main types of courses to those interested in pursuing a career in teaching.

The PGDE (Primary) course focuses on teaching students aged three to twelve, equipping them with the skills and knowledge that are necessary for their academic success and personal growth.

On the other hand, the PGDE (Secondary) offers a more in-depth academic specialisation by focusing on a particular subject, usually related to the student’s undergraduate degree. 

This type of course also prepares teachers to work with students who are typically between the ages of eleven and eighteen.

In both cases, these courses provide important theoretical instruction as well as invaluable experiential learning opportunities so aspiring teachers can gain all the necessary tools and resources for an effective teaching career.

In addition, these PGDE courses offer many different learning options dependent on each student’s individual needs – from professional placements with schools and specialist centres to digital learning programmes – so that they can fit their studies into their current lifestyle or commitments without compromising on quality.

These options also allow students more scope to extend their knowledge beyond what is taught within traditional classroom-based environments, developing skills that will be invaluable out with academia too.

Difference between PGDE and PGCE

The PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) and the Scottish PGDE (Professional Graduate Diploma in Education) provide an important professional qualification for aspiring teachers.

Both courses offer a practical, experiential approach to teaching postgraduate qualification and learning, combining academic modules with hands-on placements in schools. 

While there are more similarities than differences, there are some key distinctions that those considering a career in teaching qualification should bear in mind.

Firstly, EU citizens who complete a PGDE will benefit from the Teacher Induction Scheme (TIS), which guarantees them a one-year probationary post at a local school upon successful completion of their course. 

Moreover, this degree-level programme applies to both primary education and secondary education.

In contrast, graduates of an English or Welsh PGCE may elect to pursue a school-led course that is delivered by local school staff rather than university staff. 

PGCE applies to primary education, secondary education or adult education.

Overall, each programme has unique opportunities and benefits so individuals should thoroughly research both options to decide on the one that best suits their needs

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Diploma in Education 

The entry requirements for prospective candidates of all courses require certain qualifications equivalent to a UK first or second-class honours degree to be fulfilled at the undergraduate level.

• First, any candidate must hold a degree qualification or equivalent international qualification in a relevant subject; particular subjects may have specific minimum requirements and therefore it is recommended to check with the tutor for further details.
• Additionally, GCSE Maths and English language requirements should be passed at grade 4 or higher, although an equivalency test might be accepted on application if necessary. For candidates whose first language is not English, the Universities set a minimum English language proficiency level.
• Lastly, professional skills tests in numeracy and literacy must also be passed as part of the application process.

These tests assess core teacher training capabilities such as problem-solving, literacy techniques and to understanding data analysis. 

These standards are dictated by the Department For Education and can be found on their website for further information.

In summary, entry into educational courses requires prospective candidates to fulfill specific qualifications and pass the minimum academic requirements prescribed by the Department Of Education. With this knowledge, it is essential to research curriculums before beginning studies to ascertain what is needed from applicants beforehand.

Course Content

The Post-Graduate Diploma in Secondary Education (PGDipEd) is an excellent option for individuals looking to gain Qualified Teacher Status. 

It is rated outstanding by Ofsted and offers the equivalent of 120 credits which may be used towards an MA in Teaching practice.

This unique programme provides high-quality training and support, with excellent employment prospects upon completion. 

There are also several specialised Professional Development programmes available to help further develop your career.

The PGDipEd covers a range of subject areas, including English, geography, art & design, music and science. It is designed to give you the necessary knowledge and skills to become a successful teacher in secondary education.

Throughout the degree-level course, prospective students will learn how to manage a classroom effectively, deliver inspiring lessons and use up-to-date assessment methods.

Postgraduate students will also gain an understanding of pupils’ cognitive development, behaviour management techniques and the legal framework which applies to teaching in England and Wales.

The course covers a broad range of topics including an introductory overview of the historical and philosophical context.  

There is also an opportunity to study one of three optional modules and various professional contexts you will be interested in developing content, or assessment, or have an interest in management. 

The modules are assessed based on written reports, presentations, and critical reviews.

Why Study PGDE?

The PGDE Programme is a unique Master-level course designed to allow the students to develop as engaged and reflective teachers through an 18-week study period and 18-week school experience.

The course encourages a research-led approach that promotes values and dispositions associated with social justice, helping prospective students to learn how to become socially just and inclusive teachers. 

As part of the programme, assessments are aligned with criteria set out by the GTC Scotland Standard for Provisional Registration, further strengthening the key learnings and a range of approaches to teaching for postgraduate students undertaking this postgraduate degree.

Across both university-based modules and school-based modules, students have multiple opportunities to increase their understanding of the profession through research-informed learning and trends related to motivation and learning theories across various educational contexts. 

This combination of academic study and practical understanding also sets graduates up for continual professional development throughout their careers.

This programme is an important tool for educating confident future educators who will be well- equipped to support society in its educational needs.

Career Opportunities

The General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTC Scotland) provides professional recognition for teachers in the country. 

Successful completion of a PGDE (Postgraduate Diploma in Education) is required to meet the GTCS Standard for Provisional Registration and to begin working within primary or secondary school environments. 

Students will get a chance to enhance their professional practice and gain leadership roles during their career path.

Providing recognition across Scottish schools as well as throughout the UK and abroad, those holding the Catholic Teacher’s Certificate qualification can expect to secure posts that require teaching Religious Education specifically in the denominational sector, pending approval.

Additionally, those who invest in the PGDE receive not only provisionally registered membership with GTC Scotland but also a wide range of career prospects. 

Graduates have received employment opportunities within both primary and secondary school contexts, all across Scotland and beyond its boundaries.

This includes further development at home and working abroad- all options accessible due to Global connections facilitated by both postgraduate courses and GTCS’s Professional Recognition status.

Duration of the Course

For those interested in pursuing a higher degree of education, the amount of time it may take to complete can vary greatly depending on the degree chosen. 

Depending on the institution and program selected, the minimum amount of time required to obtain a college degree is typically one year, while some programs require up to four years for completion.

When determining how long it will take to complete a college degree, several factors should be taken into consideration. 

These factors could include the student’s scheduling commitments, their level of commitment to efficiently completing their studies, and resources available within the selected program that could help them in attaining their degree.

Additionally, when choosing a program or specific courses within a program, student teachers need to consider if they can commit to full-time or part-time studies depending on other commitments such as employment or family obligations which could limit available study hours.

Generally speaking, students are recommended not to overload themselves but instead focus on providing quality content and ensure successful completion by taking an adequate amount of credits without overburdening yourself. 

Ultimately when considering how long it takes to finish obtaining your degree understanding these elements should be included for predicting an accurate timeline.

Course Details

This postgraduate-level diploma programme is an ideal way to advance your knowledge and understanding of various issues concerning education. 

It requires an inquisitive mind and allows you to take part in deep reading, thought-provoking conversations, extensive research, and thorough reflection.

Participants will be able to gain insights into different aspects of the contemporary educational landscape that can be applied in their profession. 

The curriculum encourages students to challenge their thinking to produce unique solutions for the challenges they face today. 

Furthermore, it gives learners the tools needed to generate creative strategies for improving learning around the world.

Furthermore, given its focus on professional development rather than teaching certification specifically, the MA Education degree allows students tremendous flexibility in terms of combining topics from their current interests as well as new interests they develop during their studies.

The courses provide freedom to explore psychological perspectives on learning, understand modern curriculums or investigate sensitive political topics like inclusion initiatives or equal access initiatives within a school setting.

The aim is then to bring together students from diverse backgrounds and experience levels together to for them to gain skills unknown before they begin their journey along with inspiring colleagues who can motivate each other towards success throughout the course.