Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)

The Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and Certificate in Education (Cert Ed) provide comprehensive professional training for those working or aspiring to work within the post-16 education and training sector. These qualifications support educators across a wide range of settings including Further and Higher Education Institutions, Sixth Form Colleges, Schools, Adult and Community learning, Prison Education, Workplace training environments and Specialist Education Services.

The programmes are accessible to both graduates and non-graduates who hold appropriate vocational qualifications and can be studied either full-time through a pre-service route or part-time through an in-service route. It is important to note that the courses are not available to applicants who require a student visa.

The pre-service route is designed for those who wish to gain a teaching qualification prior to entering employment. This one-year, full-time option requires attendance at the University and Professional Development Centre (Bury St Edmunds) for one day each week with additional days dedicated to a teaching placement. Placements can be supported by the Eastern Education Group and any offer of a place on the course is conditional upon the applicant successfully completing an interview with the proposed placement provider.

The in-service route is intended for individuals who are already employed as teachers or trainers in part-time or full-time roles. This two-year, part-time pathway involves attending one afternoon per week at the University and Professional Development Centre (Bury St Edmunds). As schedules may vary, applicants are encouraged to contact the Course Leader to confirm specific days and times before applying.

Both programmes are carefully designed to support trainee teachers in developing the professional skills, theoretical understanding, and reflective practices required in post-16 education. A strong focus is placed on meeting the needs of diverse learners and on helping trainees connect relevant educational theories with their own professional practice. Throughout the course, students engage in learning activities directly related to their individual teaching contexts, ensuring that their development remains practical, meaningful, and immediately applicable.

The course is delivered on campus and requires students to attend one day per week.

Course Modules

Year 1

Introduction to Teaching

Supporting Learner Progress and Behaviour

Professional Practice 1

Education in Context (Pre-service)

Evidence Informed Enquiry (Pre-service)

Year 2

Education in Context

(if not studied in year 1)

Evidence Informed Enquiry (if not studied in year 1)

Professional Practice 2

https://universitycentre.easterneducationgroup.ac.uk/profgce/