Launch Your Teaching Career with a PGCE in Further Education
Break into teaching with a PGCE in Further Education (FE). Learn from the best at Devon’s only Ofsted-rated Outstanding College, with generous government funding available.
The PGCE in FE is a Level 7 programme that certifies trainees to work in post-16 education and training, and contributes to professional formation QTLS status. Our PGCE in FE is validated by the University of Exeter, and trainees have access to the university’s study and leisure facilities. At Exeter College, our trainees’ week is split into a 3-day teaching placement in one of our subject areas, and two days of taught classes. The course runs from September to June and counts towards up to 120 credits of a master’s degree. We currently have availability for a September 2024 start.
Miriam McDowell (pictured above) is a current PGCE in FE trainee and is studying to teach GCSE English.
“The PGCE tutors have been extremely supportive in terms of study skills and how to approach our essays. Some of us have been out of formal education for a long time and their support has made the academic side of the course feel far less daunting. The mentors have supported me in many ways… from helping me manage my time between teaching and studying to building my confidence and setting me workable targets.”
Your course will be tailor-made to your specialism; featuring modern education principles for your subject area. Trainees from a diverse range of specialisms regularly meet to pool knowledge, while an extensive portfolio of written work will evidence your teaching practice’s development. Our PGCE in FE is a truly unique opportunity in this region to learn from teachers in a college that is performing to the highest possible standard.
The College is a supportive learning environment and teachers are conscious of any obstacles learners may face. Rosemary Baines is studying to teach Maths.
“Everyone – from fellow PGCE students, through to the PGCE teaching team, to everyone in my placement faculty – is really lovely and supportive. The PGCE tutors are a real help with all aspects, from course content to advice with placements and a listening ear when things don’t go to plan.”
A PGCE in FE at Exeter College is a reliable route into employment: 70% of our learners go on to work with us. 20% of graduates find employment at other colleges, or continue to an MA.
Alex Boyle, Head of Faculty in Sport, Leisure and Tourism, says:
“When I employ a PGCE learner, I know I am getting a member of staff with strong pedagogical knowledge, a desire to improve and someone who understands the expectations of an Ofsted-Outstanding College. PGCE learners at Exeter College develop a detailed knowledge of our processes, curricula and faculty culture. This significantly improves graduates’ opportunities for employment across the College.”
Miriam agrees.
“I’ve gained so much classroom experience and the confidence that comes with that. I have forged good relationships with members of staff across different faculties and I think this stands me in good stead to find a job after the PGCE.”
This qualification can be a springboard for those interested in further postgraduate study. With the course counting towards up to two thirds of the credit requirement of a master’s degree, many of our trainees go on to a ‘top-up’ master’s degree.
Bursaries for the 2024 to 2025 academic year are awarded to trainees based on their qualifications and their intention to teach a designated priority subject in the FE sector. Learn more here.
Ellie (PGCE in FE Health and Social Care trainee) looks back on her experiences thus far.
“I was very nervous going into my PGCE course, however it is the best choice I could have made for my future. Teaching is amazing, it gives you all different types of perspectives which you would not get anywhere else. It can be tough, but the rewards are always greater.”
You can find out more about this programme and available funding options at our Adult and Higher Technical Education Open Event on Wednesday 27 March. You can also contact the Adult Advice Team on 01392 400170 or at adultadvice@exe-coll.ac.uk.
