How to apply for a PGCE

Make sure you have the right qualifications for your chosen course (your GCSEs, A-levels and your degree).

Have details of any relevant work experience in schools or other learning environments to hand when filling out your application too, as these can really make a difference.

Prepare your references. They’ll need to provide a written account of your character and teaching potential. Your references are not requested until you have been made an offer but it’s a good idea to have them ready in advance if you can. Find out more about what your references will need on the Get into Teaching website.

You’ll need a strong personal statement so it’s a good idea to prepare this in advance. This will explain why you want to teach and why you’re suited to your chosen course (read on for more support about personal statements).

Your personal statement is the best chance to make your application stand out. 

It should be around 1000 words, in two parts: 

• 600 words on why you want to be a teacher 

• 400 words on why you’re suited to your chosen subject and age group, this should include subject knowledge for secondary applications 

Include any relevant work experience in schools or other education institutions. We strongly recommend undertaking school experience before applying; it proves you’re knowledgeable, enthusiastic and committed.

Your personal statement is a vital part of your application, so it is important to take your time when you are writing it, making sure it represents you in the best way possible.

Submit your application via the Department for Education (DfE) Apply portal. And make sure you have your course and preferred provider’s details to hand when you do.

If your application is accepted, you’ll be invited for an interview. Interviews will take place online.  

Once you accept an offer, you’ll be asked to complete conditions such as a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and a health questionnaire to make sure you’re fit for the training ahead.

If your current qualifications aren’t sufficient, you may be asked to complete an equivalence test or take a subject knowledge enhancement (SKE) course before starting your course.