PGCE Secondary Education with QTS (School Based)

The PGCE Secondary Education (School Based) course is designed for graduates who want to train as secondary school teachers through hands-on experience in a school, supported by the University. We partner with around 12 schools, grouped into School Based Alliances led by a lead school. You'll apply to one of these Alliances and, if successful at interview, be placed in one of their host schools for your training. Many trainees go on to work at their placement school, as the initiative helps schools grow future teaching and leadership talent. On successful completion, you’ll be awarded both a PGCE and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), allowing you to teach in any state-maintained secondary school in England.

IELTS 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in each component) — standard University of Sunderland requirement (source: sunderland.ac.uk/how-to-apply/english-language-requirements)

International students: £19,000 per year

UK students: £9,250 per year

UK/Home: £9,250 per year

International: £19,000 per year

September 2026

No fixed deadline — apply at least 6 months before your start date via the University's direct application portal.

• On campus, United Kingdom