Become a teacher in a college, sixth form or training centre on this Further Education and Skills (PGCE), and support and inspire students aged 16 and above as they prepare to take their first career steps.
You’ll learn the most effective teaching techniques by spending time on teaching placements in real education settings and exploring teaching theory in lectures and classes. You’ll also develop subject specific knowledge by working closely with course lecturers and work-based subject mentors.
Course modules:
Year 1 – Planning, Assessing & Evaluating and Learning Programmes; Theories & Principles for Planning & Enabling Learning in a Specialist Subject Area. You will understand your own role and responsibilities in relation to the teaching and learning process and learn how to plan and prepare lessons using the appropriate teaching and learning strategies. You will also be able to apply theories and principles of learning to enable inclusive learning.
Year 2 – Professional Practice, Curriculum Design in a Specialist Subject Area. You will investigate education policy in an area relevant to your own work. You will also do a small piece of research to develop your understanding of your learners and of your own practice. You will reflect on your own development needs and create a teaching file of evidence linking theory to practice.
The course will be taught by a mixture of lectures, seminars, group work, individual tutorials and guided self study. It is assessed by written work, oral presentation, observation of teaching and a teaching practice file. You will develop the skills required to be a reflective teacher in post-16 education and training.
Awarding Body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Portsmouth.
Course Fees
The course fees are set by the University of Portsmouth and may be subject to change – please see their website for the latest fees and details. Instalment plans and loans may be available to assist with this.
Policies
For our HE Fees, Admissions and Student Protection Policies, please visit our Policies page.
You should have a good honours degree or equivalent in a relevant subject. Formal qualifications, experiental learning and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) are also considered.
GCSEs in English and maths at grade 4/C or above, or equivalent (recognised Level 2 qualification), are essential.
You are also required to have at least 100 teaching hours plus 75 non-teaching hours per year, and have an identified subject mentor.
A clear and current DBS certificate is also required.
You will need to apply for the course through the University of Portsmouth website – the below APPLY button link will take you directly there. Whilst you are based in Eastleigh College, you would also be a University of Portsmouth student and will therefore be able to access their facilities and support.
All shortlisted applicants are subject to interview at Eastleigh College.
This Level 6 Certificate in Education (PGCE) is a professional teaching qualification recognised by further education providers in the UK, enabling you to teach in colleges, sixth forms and private training providers.
When you graduate, you’ll also be eligible to apply to the Society for Education and Training (SET) to gain Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status, which is recognised as comparable to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
You will also have the option to progress to a full Master’s degree in the future.
Course ID
H6403-2526-E-P1
Start Date
17/09/2025
End Date
16/06/2027
Location
Eastleigh College
College is not just about your course – it’s an opportunity to have fun, meet new people and explore your interests! You can socialise with friends in the café and comfy seating areas, join a club or sports team or attend exciting events around the college. Many of our enrichment opportunities are also great on your CV or UCAS application to demonstrate your commitment and enthusiasm outside of your studies.
Your time at college can also be affected by life or health difficulties, and it’s okay to need support. Our specialist teams are here every day to listen and give advice, whether it’s about career planning, financial support, mental health, or something else. And if you have a long-term support need or medical condition, we’ll work with you on personalised learning support to help you achieve your full potential.