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Course overview
Designed for those new to education, our full-time Primary PGCE with iQTS is the UAE’s only in-person ITT programme aligned with UK standards, offering two teaching placements to prepare you to teach pupils aged 5-11.
The one-year full-time PGCE with iQTS in Primary Education prepares you to enter the teaching profession as a reflective, research-informed practitioner, ready to make a meaningful impact in the classroom.
Accredited by the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Education
Course content
The PGCE with iQTS at the University of Birmingham Dubai offers a unique blend of research-led education and practical classroom experience, tailored to the needs of aspiring primary educators. You'll receive expert guidance from experienced academics and senior teachers, ensuring you develop the critical skills and confidence needed to excel in the classroom. With a focus on subject knowledge in core areas and hands-on school placements, this programme prepares you to meet and exceed UK teaching standards, positioning you for a successful career in education both locally and internationally.
Course highlights
Our programme stands out as the only in-person ITT programme in the UAE aligned with UK Teacher Standards.
Backed by the University’s long-standing reputation for excellence in teacher training, this programme offers dedicated personalised support from expert faculty and senior teachers in schools. Developed in collaboration with the UK Department of Education, it prepares you to exceed teaching standards at an outstanding level, ensuring you are fully equipped to enter the global teaching profession with confidence.
- Benefit from the University of Birmingham's long-standing reputation and collaboration with the UK Department of Education for high-quality training.
- Become a reflective, critically aware practitioner through a programme that emphasises research-led education and essential classroom skill development.
- Gain hands-on school-based experience, with personalised support designed to help you exceed teaching standards at an outstanding level.
- Earn the iQTS qualification, recognised internationally, preparing you to confidently join the global teaching profession.
Gain a globally recognised teaching certificate that's accredited by a top 100 UK University.
Develop as a teaching professional while studying in the UAE.
Build high-demand skills aligned with UK and UAE standards, enhancing career prospects with employers.
Course delivery
Teaching on this programme is delivered through a blend of university-based sessions and extensive school placements, offering both face-to-face and practical teaching experiences.
- Engage in lectures, small group seminars, and workshops at our Dubai campus, led by expert university tutors.
- Complete 120 days of assessed teaching placements in partner schools, supported by trained mentors and university link tutors.
- Participate in block teaching sessions that include micro-teaching, collaborative planning, directed tasks, and reflective practice, all linked to iQTS Teacher Standards.
- Enhance your English and Mathematics teaching skills through dedicated modules, supported by academic assignments and subject knowledge audits.
Assessment includes a combination of academic assignments, competency evaluations across iQTS Teachers' Standards, and practical teaching placements, ensuring well-rounded teacher development.
School Collaboration
During two full-time school placements you will apply what you have learned whilst continuing to develop your practice through team teaching, supported solo teaching and observing experienced teachers. Your school based mentors and University link tutors will facilitate the development of your teaching pedagogy and subject knowledge throughout your placements. As the course progresses, you will develop increasing confidence and expertise in selecting from a repertoire oflearning activities that are supported by appropriate use of resources and technology.
Module information
The 60-credit programme consists of three 20-credit modules, including a Teaching Experience module, supported by 120 days of assessed school placements across partner schools.
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
Any optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.
The following modules must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Teaching Experience | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Primary and Early Years School Studies 1 | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Primary and Early Years School Studies 4 | 20 | Semester 2 |
Entry requirements
To secure your place at the University of Birmingham Dubai, you must meet both our general entry requirements and the specific criteria for your chosen course. Your application will be carefully reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will determine if you will receive an offer.
- 2.2 degree or equivalent.
English language requirements
In order to undertake a programme of study here at the University, you will need to demonstrate that you have a good level of written and spoken English. You can demonstrate your level of English with IELTS/TOEFL/PTE or alternative qualifications.
To apply for the PGCE Primary with iQTS (5-11) programme you must submit evidence of:
- a bachelor’s degree at grade 2.2, or equivalent*
- achieving a standard equivalent to grade 4/C in GCSE Mathematics
- achieving a standard equivalent to grade 4/C in a GCSE Science (Biology, Chemistry or Physics) subject
- demonstrate proficiency in the English language (you will need an IELTS score of 6.5 or higher, or to have completed your education in English). Please note the University of Birmingham only accepts the IELTS exam.
- deemed suitable to train to teach in England and in the country in which you will train to teach (passing a range of relevant background and safeguarding checks).
- Two references (from previous employers and/or your University if you have only recently graduated) confirming your suitability to train to teach and work with children.
We accept Equivalency tests from A Star Equivalency and Equivalency Testing (please email uobdsoeadmissions@bham.ac.uk with your application number for a discounted rate).
All shortlisted candidates who meet the criteria will be invited to an interview and assessment day.
As part of the admissions process you will need to provide the following information on your application form.
- Name and address
- Date of birth
- Country of residence (You must be resident in the UAE for the programme duration)
- A personal statement
- Evidence of your qualifications as above
- References
Personal Statement
Your personal statement should outline your previous academic achievements and experience of working with children. It should include details of any schools you are already working in or schools you are associated with. You should also include details of what you to gain from the course and how it will help you develop as a teacher (approximately 500 - 700 words).
Evidence of qualifications
You need to supply evidence or transcripts of your Bachelor’s degree at a minimum of a 2.2 or equivalent.
You will also need to provide evidence that you achieved 6.5 (6.0 in each subject) in your IELTS test if your bachelors degree is not in the medium of English.
Evidence is required of a grade 4/C GCSE (or equivalent High School certificate) in a Science, Mathematics and English.
References
Two references will be required one academic and one professional. Your professional reference should preferably be someone who can comment on your suitability for working with children. The references should be on official letterhead when possible. All references should provide supporting evidence in relation to the personal statement, your suitability for the course and confirm your suitability to work with children in the Primary Phase (please download and utilise this form - Word doc). You will need to approach your referees to ensure that you are able to provide current contact details.
Interview
Following a review of the above, successful applicants will be shortlisted for a 30 minute panel interview to assess your suitability to the programme and motivation to teach. During this interview both University faculty and school partners will be present. It is therefore imperative that you include all necessary documents prior to submission. If successful at the interview, a conditional offer will be granted.
Next Steps
There are a number of conditions attached to your offer of a place to study an ITE programme. All applicants are required to meet Safeguarding and other suitability conditions, set out below.
Due to the extensive safeguarding and suitability checks associated with a Department for Education regulated programme, after your interview you will be required to provide evidence of the following before September of the academic year you are enrolling in.
Conditions of your offer
Fitness to Teach Health Assessment
All Dubai ITE applicants are required to complete an online Fitness to Teach Health Assessment form which is deemed satisfactory by a University nominated Occupational Health team. Should you decide to accept your offer with us you will be sent further details by email on how to complete this.
Declaration of Suitability for Teaching
All Dubai ITE applicants are required to complete a Suitability Declaration so that their suitability to teach can be assessed by the University. Please ensure that you complete and submit the suitability declaration form as soon as possible and well in advance of the programme start date. Complete the suitability for teaching form
International Child Protection Certificate (ICPC) check and Dubai Police Check
All iQTS offers are contingent upon receiving a satisfactory ICPC certificate (if the candidate has ever lived and/or worked in the UK), Dubai Police check (within 3 months of placement start) as well as police clearance certificates from domicile country and/or any country of residence (of a period of 3 months or more) in the previous 5-year period.
Prohibition Order Check
All ITE applicants are required to have a Prohibition Order check. Applicants are not required to take any action as the University will carry out the checks via the Teaching Regulations Agency’s Teacher Services.
Academic conditions
If your offer is conditional upon providing evidence of academic achievement, you will need to make sure that you use an acceptable means of verifying your qualifications. You should upload your certificates/transcripts via your University of Birmingham applicant portal. Read our guidance on verification of documents
Fitness to Practise
All ITE programmes are subject to the University’s fitness to practise regulations. You will be expected to sign a programme specific code of conduct when you register upon your course. Read the Code of Professional Conduct and Fitness to Practise
Photographic ID check
All ITE applicants are required to provide a form of photographic identification, such as a passport or driving license. Please upload a scanned copy of your photographic ID via your University of Birmingham applicant portal and also share a copy of this ID at interview.
Term Dates and Holidays
Term dates will be in line with the University of Birmingham Dubai timetable.
Holidays may not be taken during term time. Please note that school half terms are not holiday weeks. It is also not advisable to book holidays very close to the end to the end of the academic year.
The PGCE Primary with iQTS will run on an irregular academic year calendar and requires students to commence their studies up to three weeks prior to the University of Birmingham Dubai timetable.
Students can expect to commence their course in September and will complete in June of the academic year they have applied for and enrolled in.
Disability
Disability can mean different things for different people. It may include you, even if you don’t consider yourself to be disabled.
If you have study support needs related to a physical or health condition, neurodiversity, mental health difficulties or specific learning disabilities we are here to help you. If you would like to find out more about what we offer, please see our University of Birmingham Dubai wellbeing support
English language requirements
In order to undertake a programme of study here at the University, you will need to demonstrate that you have a good level of written and spoken English. You can demonstrate your level of English with IELTS/TOEFL/PTE or alternative qualifications.
Fees and scholarships
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, examination and graduation.
- AED 119,234
Paying your tuition fees
We charge an annual tuition fee. The fees quoted are by full time or part time per year of study. For those studying courses over two or more years, the tuition fee will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Tuition fees can be paid in full or in three instalments per year of study.
Scholarships
Birmingham attracts the best and brightest students from across the globe. For students with the potential to thrive here, we have a number of scholarships available at our Dubai campus.
Application process
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Choosing to study with the University of Birmingham Dubai is an exciting decision and you may have many questions on what to do next. Find out more on our How to Apply page.
Career opportunities
Whether you're starting your teacher training or building on existing experience, this programme equips you with a UK government-backed qualification, recognised internationally and in England. Graduates are well-prepared to succeed in diverse educational settings, with a strong emphasis on communication, problem-solving, and cultural awareness, making them highly sought after by employers worldwide.
Number 1 targeted University by top employers in 2023-24 according to the Graduate market in 2024 High Fliers Report.
Be in high demand with employers, building a wide range of professional skills linked to UK and UAE standards.
At Birmingham Dubai, our aim is to make sure that success in your studies leads you on to a fulfilling career. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network information, advice and guidance service offers support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.
Careers Network
In a competitive global market, you need to be ready for work before you graduate. At the University of Birmingham Dubai, our careers services will help you plan and achieve your ambitions. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network Dubai information, advice, and guidance service offers support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.
Student experience
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life at our Dubai campus.
Our state-of-the-art Dubai campus, with its iconic buildings overlooking stunning parkland and friendly community, will quickly make you feel at home in the UAE's second city. Expect plenty of exciting activities to get involved in outside of your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to the University of Birmingham Dubai to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation partners allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming, and sociable surroundings.
Living in Dubai
Enrich your life with endless attractions, entertainment and lifestyle opportunities. In just over 50 years, Dubai has transformed itself from a tiny settlement to a glistening city and world-class destination. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Campus life
Our state-of-the-art Dubai campus is where our diverse community comes together, providing a home for up to 3,000 students to learn, relax, and socialise.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus, so that you can get the most out of your university experience.
Take a virtual tour
Explore our Dubai campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.