Postgraduate Certificate in Education (QTS) - Primary with Mathematics Specialism PGCE

Our PGCE Primary with Mathematics Specialism (QTS) programme ensures your professional growth, empowering you to make informed teaching decisions. Complete the course to pursue a part-time Masters in Teaching Studies.

Once you have enrolled on the PGCE primary course, you can opt to specialise either in working with 3-7 year olds or 5-11 year olds or 7-11 year olds. Students on the 3-7 specialism will undertake two placements, one in in the Early Years Foundation Stage and one in Key Stage 1. Students on the 5-11 specialism will undertake two placements, one in Key Stage 1 and one in Key Stage 2. Students on the 7-11 specialism will undertake two placements, one in Lower Key Stage 2 and one in Upper Key Stage 2.

Course Structure

• Full preparation for generalist primary teaching through engagement with all aspects of the PGCE Primary (QTS) programme
• Develop additional expertise in the learning and teaching of mathematics, preparing you undertake a leadership role early in your career
• Learn from specialist primary mathematics tutors and experts in partnership schools
• High levels of support to help you to make a difference 
• Ofsted (2024) said in their recent report 'Trainees are overwhelmingly positive about their experiences. Many trainees commented on how their personal tutors get to know them as individuals and genuinely care about their well-being'

• Assignments which link practice and research
• Opportunities within modules to practice teaching techniques
• Targeted feedback on core teaching skills

The following must be taken:

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.

All applicants to the PGCE Primary with Mathematics Specialism (QTS) must hold a degree from a UK Higher Education Institution. Normally, this should be a 2:2 or above (and this will be a condition of any offer where the degree is not already awarded).

You must also:

• have GCSE Mathematics (Grade7/A or above) and English and Science (Grade 4/C or above) or equivalent qualifications, which will be a condition of any offer if not already achieved (equivalency tests will be accepted, but only from equivalency testing)
• complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before taking up a place
• complete relevant checks to ensure you have the health and physical capacity to teach
• agree to abide by the University of Birmingham Code of Professional Conduct and Fitness to Practise

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.

For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

English Presessional Programmes

Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.

The University will charge the maximum approved tuition fee per year. If your offer is for 2025 year of entry, we expect that the tuition fee for your first year of study will be £9,535. If Parliament agrees an increase in tuition fees, the University will increase fees for each year of study normally in line with these changes and will communicate any change in the fees to affected students or existing applicants without delay.. If you are applying for 2026 year of entry, you will be advised of the annual tuition fee closer to the time.

Teacher Training funding options available

A range of financial support is available to help fund your teacher training, including tuition fee loans, maintenance loans, and tax-free bursaries or scholarships for eligible subjects. Additional grants and support are also available for those experiencing financial difficulties. International students may have limited options but could still qualify for specific grants.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.

Apply online through DfE Apply

Course code: X00G

The interview process

The interview process is designed to identify candidates who are motivated to teach. Candidates selected for interview will be invited to:

• meet course tutors
• find out more about the course
• have a one to one interview

There may be the opportunity to meet senior colleagues from partner schools during the interview day.

We boast an exceptional record of student employment post-course completion, with numerous alumni advancing to roles such as Primary Mathematics Leads, Heads of Departments, Senior Managers, advisers, and university tutors. We provide comprehensive career services and support for our students, preparing them to excel in the teaching profession.

Careers Network

Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.

Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.