PGCE with Physical Education Specialism

The University of Buckingham delivers one of the largest ITT Physical Education programmes in the country. Our PGCE programme is based on an apprenticeship model, which means that: a) you earn while you learn b) you course is largely practical with daily hands-on experience in school teaching physical education.

I have gained lots of confidence and developed my subject knowledge this year in areas that were my weakest prior to the course (2021 PGCE graduate trainee)

The PGCE is a 37-week school-based course, during which you will complete weekly tasks relating to working in a school environment as well as teaching Physical Education. There are three pathway options available: primary, preparatory and secondary, each one having a bespoke 37-week training programme. We offer a range of options including: PGCE with QTS, Independent PGCE, PGCE for International Trainees (online) and an Apprenticeship route. If you would like to know more about these different qualification routes, please contact admissions: education@buckingham.ac.uk.

During your training year you will attend four compulsory residentials (nine days overall), which includes an initial online induction with the other three residentials being face to face where you will engage in academic seminars and Physical Education specific training led by subject specialists.

“I thought today was excellent.  Very informative and full of updates/documentation.  The technology usage and switching around between presenters was awesome, so very well done guys!” Gareth (Reference Induction Training)

“I have thought the past few days have been insightful, well organised and have included a lot of brilliant content.” Beth

“Really enjoyed the residential and I thought the balance of information and sporting focus was excellent, enjoyed the PE global perspectives session and watched all of the videos and have developed quite an interest in listening to the recommended podcasts.” Callum

Your training in school will be guided by your school mentor, engaging in weekly observations and tutorials where your progress is reviewed. All tasks and relevant documentation will be completed using the University’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). You will also be assigned a university tutor who visits once per term to assess your progress and guide your development. There is a triangulated assessment process involving you as the trainee, your mentor and your tutor and also three assignments to complete.

For those who have not taught before we highly recommend your participation in our Ab Initio course in late August as an addition to the PGCE. This will provide you with some basic knowledge and skills to start teaching.

Required entry qualifications: Degree. The vast majority of our trainees have a sports science/coaching/Physical Education related degree. However, we do occasionally consider graduates with non-sport related degrees who can demonstrate a strong background in sport, coaching or teaching experience.

“Extended my teaching repertoire and tool kit of pedagogical strategies and behaviour management. I’m a more well balanced, equipped and confident teacher in all aspects of the job – academic and pastoral.” (2021 PGCE graduate trainee)

If you are interested in joining the exciting world of teaching Physical Education, find out more by contacting the education department: education@buckingham.ac.uk.

View all our PGCE courses.