Our Professional Graduate Certificate and Certificate in Education provide a clear route into teaching across the post‑14 sector, preparing you for roles in further education, schools, adult and community learning, prison education, higher education, and workplace training.
Study Options
Validated by The University of ÏòÈÕ¿ûÊÓÆµ, these qualifications are open to both graduates and those with relevant vocational experience, offering a solid foundation for professional teacher training.
- Pre-service (full-time): Delivered at ÏòÈÕ¿ûÊÓÆµ New College, with two half days per week on campus and additional placement days.
- In-service (part-time): For those currently teaching or training in a paid/voluntary role, requiring one half day per week attendance at ÏòÈÕ¿ûÊÓÆµ New College.
Course Structure
- Introduction to Teaching (module 1)
- Supporting Learners’ Progress and Behaviour (module 2)
- Professional Practice 1 (module 3)
- Education in Context (module 4)
- Evidence Informed Enquiry (module 5)
- Professional Practice 2 (module 6)
Note: For pre-service students, Professional Practice 1 and 2 are combined into a single 40 credit (module 7).
Teacher Training Experience
Throughout the programme, you will:
- Learn core teaching principles, including session planning and delivery.
- Study behaviour management and assessment strategies.
- Explore debates influencing your subject area.
- Engage in reflective practice with tutors and mentors.
- Complete regular observations and reviews to support your growth.
What this course will give you
Recognised Qualification
The PGCE is recognised in the Further Education and Skills sector for employment as a teacher. It provides a basis for higher qualifications like Master’s degrees or professional doctorates.
Career Pathways
Graduates can work in a wide range of settings such as general FE colleges, sixth form centres, adult education institutions, prison education, and training providers.
Key Teacher Skills
- Understanding theory and pedagogy
- Creating a successful learning climate
- Planning and teaching engaging lessons
- Using assessment to inform planning
Employability
This course develops highly transferable skills essential for teachers, such as:
- Empathy
- Patience
- Active listening
- Cultural awareness and sensitivity
- Resilience
Through teaching practice, you’ll also develop workplace awareness and professional behavior norms around respect for others, sustainability, equality, inclusion & diversity, and health & safety.
Teacher Training FAQs
Applications are made through the .
Steps to Apply:
- Click the Apply button on the course page.
- Select How to Apply and navigate to Initial Teacher Training.
- Choose the Direct Application Form and select Create a New User.
- Complete your details. If eligible, you will be invited to interview.
There are different funding options available, such as:
- Student Finance (loans and grants)
- Bursaries (Tax-free funding for certain subjects, worth up to £31,000 )
Some employers may support your training financially.
For more information on funding and training options, visit the dedicated funding page.
Continuous assessment via essays, reports, assignments, microteaches, professional discussions, presentation, academic posters and practical teaching observations.
Your personal statement should include:
- Why you want to become a teacher
- Your commitment to the profession
- Why you want to teach your chosen subject
- Relevant skills, experience, and influences
- Any additional information supporting your application
Note: This course is not open to applicants requiring a Student visa.
The qualification meets specifications regulated by the Education and Training Foundation for teacher education in the Further Education and Skills sector. It is also recognised by the Society for Education and Training for Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills status.
PGCE:
- An honours degree or equivalent in your specialist subject.
- All applicants are required to hold GCSE English and Maths at Grade C/4 or above or equivalent.Ìý
Cert Ed:
Level 3 subject specific qualification or relevant vocational experience.
- All applicants are required to hold GCSE English and Maths at Grade C/4 or above or equivalent.
News
View allCourse Information
Applications for this course are made through The University of ÏòÈÕ¿ûÊÓÆµ website.
Ofsted Report
In March 2022 we were awarded an Ofsted ‘Good’ grade for our Teacher Training provision.
Funding & Bursaries
Undergraduates and postgraduates can get help with the costs of their teacher training.
Start Your Journey in Further Education Teaching
Further Education (FE) offers a flexible and rewarding teaching career for those teaching learners aged 16 and over who are not studying for a degree.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about the course please contact the teacher training team on 01473 382200 or email ITETutors@suffolk.ac.uk