Today's world is beset by problems, and yet as a society we are given few opportunities to consider the big questions of life. Religious Education gives learners this opportunity. The Religious Education PGCE programme supports students in developing the skills they need to help pupils explore what they think about life, the world and beyond.

About this programme

This programme provides an understanding of why religious education is taught in schools and allows student teachers the chance to research how the subject has evolved and is just as relevant as part of the English curriculum today as it always has been. The Religious Education PGCE also enables students to reflect upon the aims of religious education and how different pedagogies can support learners to develop key religious education skills and be challenged and excited by the world today. The programme prepares religious education student teachers to teach the 11-16 age range.

Students undertake two level 7 (Master’s-level) modules of 30 credits each, totalling 60 credits. These credits can be carried forward onto some Master’s programmes at the IOE (check individual programme requirements).

The Secondary PGCE consists of three core modules: two Master’s-level (level 7) modules, which are assessed through written assignments, and the Professional Practice module, which is assessed by the observation of practical teaching in placement schools.

Upon successful completion of 60 credits, you will be awarded a PGCE.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered via keynote lectures, subject lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials and directed study days at the IOE, as well as time spent in placements. Assessment is by practical teaching, assignments and portfolio tasks.

Careers

Graduates of this programme are currently working in schools across London and around the UK as teachers, heads of departments and heads of year. A number of graduates continue with their Master’s level study on completion of the PGCE.

Employability

Graduates of the Secondary PGCE programme are highly employable and sought after by schools and colleges in London and beyond. Almost all graduates secure their first teaching post by the time they finish the PGCE programme. Graduates of the programme also have great career prospects, with many becoming Head of Department or a Head of Year within 2-5 years, often acting, in their schools, as mentors to new PGCE student teachers. Many of our graduates become senior teachers (such as Assistant Headteachers or Head of a Faculty) in 5-8 years of graduating, and some are now Headteachers. Others have developed their careers as subject specialist teachers and educators, both becoming lead teachers in the classroom and researching, writing and advising other teachers themselves. The Secondary PGCE Programme aims to provide a springboard into a rewarding career as a skilled teacher and future educational leader.