PGCE
PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) is a widely recognized teaching qualification in the UK and some other countries. It's a one-year course that turns graduates into qualified teachers. Think of it as a bridge that helps someone with a regular university degree become a certified teacher. It combines classroom learning about teaching methods with real hands-on teaching practice in schools. It's similar to other teaching qualifications like School Direct or Teach First, but PGCE is the most traditional and widely recognized route into teaching. You might also see it referred to as a "teaching certification" or "teacher training qualification."
Examples in Resumes
Completed PGCE in Secondary Mathematics Education at University of Manchester
Achieved PGCE with specialization in Primary Education
Currently pursuing PGCE qualification while working as a teaching assistant
Typical job title: "Teachers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Teachers
Example Interview Questions
Experienced Teacher Questions
Q: How do you mentor newly qualified teachers and support their development?
Expected Answer: Should discuss experience in mentoring new teachers, sharing best practices, classroom observation techniques, and providing constructive feedback for professional development.
Q: Describe how you've contributed to developing curriculum or school policies.
Expected Answer: Should explain involvement in curriculum planning, policy development, and how they've used their experience to improve school-wide teaching practices.
Mid-Level Teacher Questions
Q: How do you differentiate your teaching for different ability levels?
Expected Answer: Should explain methods for adapting teaching materials and approaches to suit different learning needs and abilities in the classroom.
Q: How do you handle challenging behavior in the classroom?
Expected Answer: Should describe behavior management strategies, establishing classroom rules, and maintaining a positive learning environment.
Newly Qualified Teacher Questions
Q: What did you learn from your PGCE teaching practice?
Expected Answer: Should discuss practical teaching experience gained during training, lessons learned from mentors, and how they applied educational theory in real classroom situations.
Q: How do you plan your lessons to ensure learning objectives are met?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic lesson planning structure, setting clear objectives, and including different activities to engage students.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic lesson planning
- Classroom management fundamentals
- Understanding of national curriculum
- Use of basic assessment methods
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced behavior management
- Differentiated teaching strategies
- Parent communication skills
- Subject leadership capabilities
Senior (5+ years)
- Curriculum development
- Mentoring other teachers
- Department leadership
- School policy development
Red Flags to Watch For
- No teaching practice experience during PGCE
- Unable to explain basic lesson planning
- Lack of understanding of safeguarding
- Poor classroom management skills
- No knowledge of current educational policies
