PGCE Secondary Biology in Stoke-On-Trent United Kingdom | University of Staffordshire

Science permeates every aspect of our daily existence. It has enabled humanity to accomplish feats once deemed impossible – from lunar landings to medical breakthroughs. This remarkable journey begins with science education, where students cultivate their natural curiosity and investigate their surroundings. Our Secondary Biology PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) prepares you with effective teaching methods to become a skilled science educator for Key Stages 3 and 4. You'll learn approaches to help students grasp fundamental biological concepts, including human, animal, and plant biology, as well as humanity's relationship with our planet.
While specializing in biology, the program also incorporates chemistry and physics training, enabling you to teach all three sciences competently. The course includes practical school placements, lesson planning workshops, behavior management strategies, and insights into student learning processes. On campus, you'll receive subject-specific mentoring and personalized guidance to refine your teaching practice. Beyond earning a teaching qualification, you'll join our Institute of Education community with access to cutting-edge classroom research and evidence-based teaching methods. The program features hands-on sessions in our state-of-the-art £30m Science Centre and includes ecological field studies alongside other innovative practical experiences.
This full-time Secondary Biology PGCE runs for one academic year from September through July. The school-centered program begins with an induction before your teaching placement and includes weekly university sessions focusing on curriculum knowledge and subject-specific teaching methods. Additionally, you'll complete 20 Intensive Training and Practice (ITaP) days concentrating on core teaching competencies to enhance your classroom skills.
Career Prospects
Upon earning your PGCE with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), you'll be qualified to teach Biology in secondary schools throughout England.
Many of our students secure teaching positions during their PGCE year, often within our partner schools. After completing this course, you can progress to our Masters in Education program. Your PGCE awards you Masters-level credits, allowing accelerated completion of the MA by the end of your second teaching year.