Our one-year, full-time Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) Secondary Science (specialising in Biology) programme will equip you with the skills, experience and knowledge you need to teach science to pupils aged between 11 and 16, with the option of additional experience of A-level biology teaching. Upon successful completion of your PGCE, you’ll graduate with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and 90 Master’s credits. 

Focusing on biology-specific knowledge throughout the course, you’ll be taught in a variety of workshops in our purpose-built laboratories, which have been designed to mimic the workings of a secondary school science lab. You’ll also be taught essentials such as how to ensure pupil safety in the lab, classroom management, working with lab technicians and support staff, and how to use your own practical work and demonstrations to inspire your classes. 

Biology-specific workshops will focus on subject knowledge and methods of teaching across Key Stages 3, 4 and 5, giving you the skills you’ll need to encourage your pupils to want to learn, and to help build their confidence. 

Practical sessions will include molecular biology techniques, engaging activities in plant science, and aquatic invertebrate identification for pond dipping activities. There is also a fieldtrip to study saltmarsh and sand dune ecology on the North Norfolk coast. We’ll visit seal and seabird colonies and you’ll learn how to organise and deliver fieldwork activities. 

In more general science teaching sessions, you’ll spend time focusing on pupil assessment and progression, then put this into practice by planning and identifying strategies to encourage positive pupil participation and achievement. 

Secondary schools are demanding but tremendously rewarding environments to work in. You’ll be teaching pupils as they mature from early adolescence to adulthood. And our programme will teach you how to make an effective contribution to the work of the school beyond your subject. 

Our graduates go on to have great success in their careers. Alongside your PGCE, you’ll gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and 90 Master’s credits. 

Career opportunities for qualified teachers are more diverse than ever before. Within a few years of joining the profession you could find yourself being promoted into a role with subject leadership and pastoral responsibilities, and progressing into senior leadership roles after experience of middle management. 

We are committed to supporting you beyond your training year, and work closely with schools and Newly Qualified Teacher (NQT) induction bodies to identify and provide support during your NQT year. 

CAREER DESTINATIONS

• Teacher

• Deputy head teacher

• Head teacher

• Private education

• Tutor

• Communications