PGCE Secondary Design and Technology at University of Staffordshire

Programme overview

A school-led PGCE at the Stoke-on-Trent campus leading to a recommendation for Qualified Teacher Status, preparing trainees to teach design and technology across KS3 and KS4. Trainees spend at least 120 days in two local secondary schools.

Duration: 1 academic year full-time (36 weeks) | Intake: September 2027 | Location: Stoke-on-Trent, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

The course combines an induction, weekly sessions at the University on curriculum knowledge and subject-specific pedagogy, and at least 120 days of school placement across two secondary schools plus a primary school visit. Trainees progress from observation and group work to teaching lessons independently, supported by a school mentor and personal tutor.

Career pathways

Trainees take part in a mock interview to prepare for teaching applications, and many receive job offers from their placement schools.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

An Honours degree at 2:2 or above in a Design Technology related degree, linked to areas such as 3D design, electronic engineering, product design, food technology or textiles. Applicants are expected to teach across all aspects of design technology and to be confident in technology and digital applications. GCSE grade C/4 or above in both English Language and Mathematics. After applying through DfE Apply, a selection interview assesses subject knowledge and personal qualities such as communication skills and resilience for teaching. Offer holders must meet the Department for Education's standards of physical and mental fitness to teach and obtain an Enhanced DBS check.

Domestic applicants: GBP 10,050 for the whole programme (2027/28 (September 2). Full-time. Source

International applicants: GBP 17,700 for the whole programme (2027/28 (September 2). Full-time. Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 1 academic year full-time (36 weeks)

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