PGCE (Physics) at University of Oxford

Programme overview

A full-time, 12-month PGCE in Physics for secondary school teaching, run through the Oxford Internship Scheme in partnership with more than 37 secondary comprehensive schools in Oxfordshire and neighbouring counties. The course aims to produce high-quality teachers of the sciences across the 11-19 age range within a co-ordinated science team covering biology, chemistry and physics. Successful interns are recommended for Qualified Teacher Status.

Faculty: Social Sciences Division | Department: Department of Education | Duration: 12 months full-time | Intake: September (orientation in September); applications via GOV.UK | Study mode: full-time | Location: Oxford, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Two interrelated components, curriculum subject work and the professional development programme (PDP), plus two written assignments based on school investigation and research literature. The 12-month course starts with three days in a primary school in September, then a first week at the Department of Education. The rest of the autumn term combines two days a week at the University with three days in a state secondary school, the spring term is mainly school experience, and the summer term opens with an immersive SEND-focused experience before a placement in a second state secondary school.

Career pathways

Most interns secure a teaching post in a state-maintained school. As of August 2025, 92% of the 2024-25 cohort had accepted teaching positions or were seeking teaching roles; of those who specified a destination, 72% were working as teachers in the state sector and 32% in a partnership school.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants should be committed to teaching Physics in state comprehensive schools, show commitment to working with children through voluntary work or other experience, hold a good degree (2:2 or above) in Physics or a Physics-related subject such as Engineering or Materials, and provide an excellent academic or work reference. Typically 50% of the degree should relate directly to the PGCE subject. Applicants who may need a Subject Knowledge Enhancement course are welcome. English language level: higher level required. Applicants may be asked to submit a degree transcript when they apply.

Domestic applicants: GBP 10,050 a year (2027/28). Home fee, full-time Source

International applicants: GBP 43,150 a year (2027/28). Overseas fee, full-time Source

Intake: September (orientation in September); applications via GOV.UK

Duration: 12 months full-time

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