PGCE information session

Sign up to our upcoming online PGCE Primary information session. Get an introduction to the PGCE teacher training courses for Primary level at The University of Manchester. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions.

Sign up now for our PGCE Primary information session

PGCE Primary School Direct 5-11 / Careers

Year of entry: 2024

Career opportunities

Completing a School Direct PGCE is one route to becoming a fully qualified teacher. This form of teacher training is recommended for anyone with an undergraduate degree who is looking to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

You need QTS to teach in a state-maintained or special school in England and Wales. Whilst other routes to gain QTS exist, they do not all come with the postgraduate qualification of a PGCE. A PGCE from The University of Manchester is a valued qualification regionally, nationally and internationally.

When you study a PGCE with us, we help you prepare for a successful career in education. You will be given clear direction, advice and support when making applications for teaching posts and our employment rates are consistently high.

In addition to this, a PGCE qualification can count as 60 of the 180 credits required for a master's degree, and The University of Manchester offers a range of postgraduate Education courses should you wish to continue your professional development as you progress further in your career. 

Visit our careers and employability page for more information.

Careers support

The University has its own dedicated Careers Service  that you would have full access to as a student and for two years after you graduate. At Manchester you will have access to a number of opportunities to help boost your employability .