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PGCE Secondary English with Lead Programme Partners / Application and selection

Year of entry: 2025

How to apply

Apply through the government website

Advice to applicants

We work with numerous schools in Greater Manchester to offer the Lead Programme Partner route into teaching; all routes involve the joint selection of candidates by schools and tutors at The University of Manchester.

When choosing a Lead Programme Partner route, you should identify the arrangement that the Lead Programme Partner lead school has made for delivery of Lead Programme Partner with The University of Manchester, as this will determine your pattern of training.

You should also clarify the 'expectations' to employ by the lead school - while schools can offer you a permanent role at the end of the training, there is no guarantee of employment.

You must apply through DfE Apply .

Applications or CVs sent directly to the University will not be considered.

You must submit the following with your completed application form:

  • contact details for two referees who can provide a written reference supporting your suitability for teaching
  • a personal statement (2 sections: maximum 600 words for the 1 st question; maximum 400 words for the 2 nd question) detailing your commitment to and enthusiasm for teaching, your rationale for applying to be a teacher in your subject, an awareness of the role and responsibilities of the teacher, relevant experience suggesting suitability for the role, and a good standard of written English.

We recommend that you submit your application as soon as you are able to, once applications open. It is possible that we may need further evidence of qualifications in order to make a decision on your application, so please ensure that all relevant documents are available on request.

Before submitting your DfE application, please make sure that the information you enter regarding your qualifications is correct and accurate. We have the right to cancel your application if we determine (having carried out any necessary checks), or have reasonable belief, that your application contains false information. If you have any reason to believe that the information we hold about you is untrue, incomplete or inaccurate, you must tell us immediately.

How your application is considered

The University and the lead school will review your application jointly.

The lead school will advise you if you are invited for an online interview. If successful at interview, a formal offer would then be made by the University.

Interview requirements

You will be required to attend an online interview arranged by the school.

Aptitude test requirement

The Government is replacing the professional skills tests with a new system of provider-led assurance in relation to trainees' fundamental knowledge in English and Mathematics. Under this new approach you will not be required to pass professional skills tests prior to commencing your PGCE, but you will need to demonstrate your fundamental knowledge by the end of the programme.

Fitness to practise / health requirements

If your application is successful, we will require you to comply with a confidential health screening check as advised by the Department for Education. 

Health screening will be undertaken by the Student Occupational Health Service, who will advise on any follow-up vaccinations or other intervention which may be indicated.

Disclosure and Barring Service check

If your application is successful, we will require you to comply with an enhanced check through the Disclosure and Barring Service as advised by the Department for Education. 

You must also meet the University's suitability requirements for the safeguarding of children.

Re-applications

If you applied in the previous year and your application was not successful you may apply again. Your application will be considered against the standard course entry criteria for that year of entry. 

In your new application, you should demonstrate how your application has improved. We may draw upon all information from your previous applications or any previous registrations at the University as a student when assessing your suitability for your chosen course.