1. What is a PGCE? The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is a full-time 36 week course which is developed and delivered collaboratively by the Swansea University Schools’ Partnership (SUSP). The course furnishes you with the skills, knowledge and school experience that enable you to become a successful, qualified teacher.
2. What level is a PGCE? The Swansea University Schools’ Partnership (SUSP) PGCE programme consists of 60 credits at level 7 (Masters Level) and 60 credits at level 6 (final year of Bachelors degree) on the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ).
3. How long is a PGCE? The SUSP PGCE is a one year full-time programme. Throughout the academic year, you will spend 120 days on school placements and 60 days in University-based provision.
4. How do I apply for a PGCE? To apply, select your chosen pathway here: Secondary / Primary and click ‘apply’ on the top right hand corner of the course page. You will be directed to the UCAS website where you will be able to begin the application process.
5. How much does a PGCE cost? PGCE tuition fees for UK students for academic year 2025/26 are £9,250. International and EU students: £19,300.
6. Does the PGCE qualify me to teach? After successful completion of the programme, you will be recommended for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) to the Education Workforce Council (EWC). This will enable you to teach as a New Qualified Teacher (NQT). QTS allows you to teach in England and Wales, as well as a number of other countries. We advise that you check with the respective country’s teaching association to confirm transferability and recognition.
7. Can I get a student loan for a PGCE? Please visit our PGCE Funding Page for more information on student loans, additional funding for eligible students as well as Welsh Government Teacher Training Incentives.
8. Are Welsh Government teacher training incentives available for 2024/25 entry? PGCE Secondary students studying PGCE Biology, Chemistry, Design & Technology, Information Technology, Mathematics, Modern Foreign Languages (MFL), Physics and Welsh, with a previous degree classification of 2.2 or higher, will be entitled to receive an incentive of £15,000. The incentive payments totalling £15,000 will be made in three instalments at the following points during a student’s ITE programme and early career: 1) £6,000 in January following completion of the first term of their PGCE. 2) £6,000 in July/August on successful completion of their PGCE and award of QTS. 3) £3,000 on successful completion of Induction in Wales: Welsh Government Teacher Training Incentives
The Ethnic Minority Initial Teacher Education (ITE) incentive 2024/25 is a grant available to Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic students studying an accredited postgraduate ITE programme leading to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). For more information, please view the 2024/25 guidance notes here
9. Is there funding available for studying through the medium of Welsh or to teach Welsh 2024/25? Yes. The Iaith Athrawon Yfory Incentive Scheme is an incentive paid to eligible persons who complete an accredited secondary postgraduate ITE programme in Wales that enables them to teach through the medium of Welsh or teach Welsh as a subject. A total of £5000 for eligible student teachers is paid in two instalments:
£2,500 for eligible persons on completion of an eligible secondary postgraduate ITE programme in Wales leading to QTS;
£2,500 for eligible persons on successful completion of induction at a maintained Welsh-medium or bilingual secondary school or teaching Welsh in any maintained secondary setting in Wales.
10. What is the starting salary for teachers in Wales? The starting salary for new teachers in Wales is currently £30,000. Over your working life, you can expect to increase your salary as you gain experience and take on additional pastoral/academic duties, such as within your faculty or as a tutor. Continuous professional development (CPD) will also be offered to increase and improve your skills throughout your career.
If you have a question that has not been answered on this page, please contact us by email here