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PGCE Secondary Education (Design and Technology)

UK

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What will I learn?

Secondary teaching at Nottingham Trent University (NTU)

This teaching degree provides graduates with the knowledge, skills and experience necessary to teach design and technology subjects at secondary level. Time is spent in the University and in classroom placements, ensuring that by the end of the course, trainees are confident professionals ready to begin teaching in secondary schools.

The award is offered at two levels. Both are recognised teaching qualifications, but the postgraduate award will allow fast-track entry to masters courses:

  • Professional Graduate Certificate in Education
  • Postgraduate Certificate in Education.

The choice of which qualification to take will be made while on the course, successful completion of which will lead to recommendation for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

The course aims to develop an understanding of the specialist subject in the context of the National Curriculum, the principles involved in the teaching and learning of the subject across the full age and ability range and the professional values and practice, subject knowledge and understanding commensurate with the particular subject specialism. This includes how children learn and how they develop cognitively, socially and physically and the understanding, skills and personal qualities necessary for managing the learning environment.

All trainees undertake a module concerned with the wider context of schools and education. This develops the knowledge, skills and attitudes required for your first teaching post in a secondary school. It also builds a foundation for further professional development. Elements of this module include both whole cohort keynote lectures and seminars, many of which are led by mixed groups of trainees supported by tutors. This allows you to meet the Teachers' Standards by making secure connections between issues in school and your own professional practice.

What you'll study

Our PGCE course in design and technology is designed to ensure that trainees engage in cutting edge activities at the forefront of technological education. Trainees will experience stimulating and exciting projects which explore established and new materials and technologies. This not only raises expertise, knowledge and skills, but also establishes a strong foundation for innovative curriculum development, raising the expectations of young people's experience in secondary schools.

The course is designed to support trainees in becoming specialist Design and Technology teachers. Trainees are guided at interview to specialise in one of two GCSE pathways:

  • Design and Technology (including Resistant Materials, Textiles and Electronics; or
  • Food Preparation and Nutrition.

Studies will provide an understanding of the nature and philosophy of design and technology in schools for the age phase 11-16. Trainees maximise their learning opportunities through innovative lesson planning and class management, based on a sound understanding of the importance of effective assessment and monitoring strategies. They gain an understanding of the broader responsibilities of the design and technology teacher in the general school community and its local and national settings. Also covered is health and safety training (D&TA accreditation / Food and Hygiene certification).

Careers and employability

The vocational nature of the PGCE Secondary and the fact that successful completion of the course leads to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) means that graduates are ideally placed to pursue a career as a teacher in a secondary school or college.

Which department am I in?

Nottingham Institute Education

Study options

Full Time (1 year)

Tuition fees
£17,500.00 (US$ 22,684) per year
This is a fixed fee

*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution

Start date

Expected September 2025

Venue

Clifton Campus

Nottingham Trent University,

Clifton Lane,

Nottingham,

NG11 8NS, England

Entry requirements

For international students

You will need: a third class UK honours degree or equivalent. GCSE English and Mathematics at minimum grade C / 4 or equivalent. We accept the GCSE equivalency taken. Students need to have IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component. TOEFL Overall score of 81 with at least 18 Reading, 17 Listening, 20 Speaking, 19 Writing.

*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.

Pathways options

Offered by this university

Nottingham Trent University offers below pathways course for this subject
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About Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University is one of the UK’s most popular universities with a reputation for excellent teaching and world-leading research.

  • Awarded TEF Gold for outstanding teaching
  • Prestigious scholarships worth up to 50 percent
  • Employability focused with work experience opportunities
  • Dedicated international student support

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