At Colchester Teacher Training Consortium (CTTC), our PGCE with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is a rigorous, inspiring, and highly supportive route into the teaching profession. The course blends academic study with extensive classroom experience to prepare trainees to become confident, evidence-informed and reflective practitioners.
Advantages of Having a PGCE
- National and International Recognition: A PGCE is a well-respected academic qualification that is recognised in the UK and internationally, opening up wider teaching opportunities.
- Master’s-Level Credits: The PGCE includes 60 credits at Level 7, which can be used towards a full Master’s degree in education.
- Stronger Career Progression: Holding a PGCE can enhance your professional credibility and support faster progression into leadership, specialist, or academic roles.
- Deepens Understanding of Educational Theory: You’ll gain a strong foundation in pedagogy, research, and reflective practice, helping you make informed decisions in the classroom.
- Enhances Professional Skills: The course strengthens your skills in critical thinking, research, academic writing, and communication – all valuable in and beyond teaching.
A Dual-Focused Programme
You’ll gain an in-depth understanding of the professional and academic aspects of teaching through a carefully designed programme that includes:
- Two Level 7 academic modules worth 60 Master’s-level credits awarded by the University of Suffolk, focusing on inclusive practice and the impact of teaching on learning.
- A Level 6 professional practice module based on teaching placements and assessed against the Teachers’ Standards for QTS.
Theory and Practice – Hand in Hand
The PGCE is grounded in the belief that great teaching has the power to transform lives. You’ll explore the latest educational research and pedagogical thinking, while applying this knowledge in your day-to-day classroom practice. Whether you are teaching early readers or exploring advanced subject knowledge, your training will challenge and support you to think deeply about what works best for pupils – and why.
Assessment
You’ll be assessed through a combination of written assignments, an oral presentation, and ongoing evaluation of your school-based teaching. Assessments are carefully timed and supported to ensure that you can balance academic study with your placement commitments.
Trainees complete the following modules as part of their PGCE.
| Module Title | Component Number and Type | Weighting | Word Count / Duration |
| 1: Inclusive Practice and Equitable Learning | Written Assignment based on a case study scenario | 100% | 4000 |
| 2: Making an Impact on Teaching and Learning | Part One: Individual oral presentation and academic poster | 30% | 3000 (equivalent) |
| Part Two: Written assignment | 70% | 5000 | |
| Professional Practice | Final Assessment of Evidence including observed practice | 100% | 10000 (equivalent) |
Outstanding Support
Throughout the course, you’ll receive personalised guidance from your PGCE tutor, who will support your academic assignments, research projects and professional development. You’ll also benefit from seminars and tutorials designed to help you explore key educational issues and develop your critical thinking, research and academic writing skills.
Additionally, trainees are allocated dedicated Study Days for the PGCE where they are not expected to attend placement school.
What You’ll Achieve
By the end of the course, you will:
- Achieve QTS and a PGCE with 60 Master’s-level credits
- Be equipped to teach effectively in your chosen age phase and subject
- Be confident in your ability to reflect on and improve your practice
- Have a strong foundation in educational research and enquiry
- Be ready to contribute to the wider profession and ongoing educational debate