Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) / Certificate in Education - CertEd

West Suffolk College

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.Delivery of the course is through a range of methods and assessment takes place continuously across the duration of the programme. Students’ complete essays, reports, practical teaching tasks, and other assignments aligned with the learning outcomes of each module. To successfully complete the course, all elements must be passed, including the Professional Practice components. Trainees will be observed teaching in their normal workplace setting several times throughout the programme with each observation forming an essential part of the overall assessment of their progress and professional competence.

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