School Based (School Direct)

There are essentially two pathways within the School Based (School Direct) course. All students are automatically on the Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) course but you have the opportunity, in consultation with your school partner, to opt into the School Based (School Direct) PGCE pathway.

QTS Pathway – all students

The majority of your time on this course is spent in school. It is a requirement of all QTS courses that you get at least 60 days (or equivalent) training through the year. You will get at least 15 days taught sessions from the University and a course of professional development provided by the school. Your development in school will be supported by a mentor who will help you in your progress towards meeting the standards for QTS. You will be required to undertake a period of placement in a second school that provides a contrast to your base school.

School Based (School Direct) PGCE Pathway – an option for all students

The School Based (School Direct) PGCE pathway is a mixture of work based learning and academic assessments. All students on this pathway will study the aspects described above in the QTS pathway. In addition, if you opt in to this pathway you will be required to undertake academic study and write academic assignments. There are additional taught sessions and tutorial support to support students studying on this pathway.

AWARDS

There are two possible awards from your School Based (School Direct) course:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) Pathway, all successful student teachers will achieve the recommendation for QTS.
• School Based (School Direct) PGCE Pathway, successful student teachers who (in consultation with their school partner) decide to opt in to the School Based (School Direct) PGCE will be awarded a PGCE.

All applicants for undergraduate programmes will need a minimum English level of IELTS or equivalent 6.0 overall, with no less than 6.0 in writing and no less than 5.5 in all other bands. Some programmes require 6.5/7.0 – please contact the International Office if you are unsure of your course requirement.

For postgraduate entry all applicants will need a minimum of IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in writing and no less than 5.5 in all other bands or equivalent. Some courses have a higher requirement – please contact the International Office if you are unsure of your course requirement.

For International Foundation entry all applicants will need a minimum of IELTS 5.0 or equivalent, with no less than 5.0 in writing and no less than 4.0 in all other bands.

If you have taken an IGCSE exam in English and have a Grade C, this will also usually be acceptable for most undergraduate courses.

We are also able to consider some non-UK English qualifications for entry. The International Admissions Team will advise if they are able to accept your English language qualification once you have applied.