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At Reading, we train you to become reflective professionals to secure the best for all children. We support you and help you to be resilient, creative and inclusive.
Our Primary postgraduate teacher training programmes are ideal for recent graduates and those considering a career change. The one-year course blends academic and practical learning through a combination of school placements and University-based sessions.
Watch the Primary Postgraduate Initial Teacher Education (PG ITE) presentation, delivered by the Programme Director Scarlett Murphy, to find out how you can become a confident, qualified primary school teacher.
Our Primary Postgraduate Initial Teacher Education (ITE) course has two routes to achieving Qualified Teacher Status (QTS):
Both lead to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and enable you to teach across various ages. Both routes are also taught together and provide you with extensive school-based experience through three placements in Partnership schools and alongside several taught days at the University.
There are two routes to choose from, depending on your circumstances.
The Primary Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) route leads to Qualified Teacher Status.
There are three pathways to choose from:
The PGCE route includes two additional taught modules at master's level (Level 7), enabling you to achieve the exit award of Post Graduate Certificate in Education with QTS.
The Primary Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (PgCE) leads to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
There are three pathways to choose from:
The QTS only route does not include the master's level modules, but you will still achieve QTS and exit with a Professional Graduate Certificate in Education.
The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is well suited to you if you would prefer to explore the theory underpinning teaching in more detail.
The PGCE is an internationally recognised qualification and is beneficial if you might want to teach abroad.
The PGCE provides you with 60 master's credits, which can be later put towards gaining a full master's qualification.
“Primary trainees are exceptionally well prepared for the start of their teaching careers.”
- Ofsted Inspection Report, May 2024
“Completing my PGCE in Primary Education, at the University of Reading was a rewarding experience. I gained valuable insights from experienced faculty members in a supportive and enjoyable learning environment.”
- PGCE Primary Student
If you are thinking of applying to become a teacher, please read our helpful tips leaflet, Have you considered training to teach?
Look at this leaflet for advice on planning your application and preparing for an interview on one of our primary or secondary postgraduate teaching programmes.
Apply for teacher training is the Gov.uk service where you can apply for postgraduate teacher training.
You can apply for up to four teaching programmes in your application.
Apply now for postgraduate teacher training
Visit the Department for Education (DfE) Get into Teaching website for more information on ways to train.
You can also apply for a place directly through our school partners.
If you do not have A levels but work within a related early years (birth to 5 years) or educational (4 to 11 years) setting for at least 2.5 days a week and wish to develop professionally, this is the perfect course for you.
Do you want to develop your skills in the children's workforce with a vocational degree that relates directly to your work?
You must complete the Foundation Degree in Children's Development and Learning before enrolling on the BA course.
Are you already an experienced teacher?
Do you wish to gain QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) or EYTS (Early Years Teacher Status)? Without additional training, the Assessment Only route could be your perfect choice.