Postgraduate Teacher Training

Postgraduate Teacher Training

Ready to share your passion and inspire the next generation?

Our PGCE programmes combine world-class teacher training with hands-on school placements, giving you everything you need to inspire, engage, and make a lasting impact from your very first day in the classroom.

The University of Cumbria has a long history of teaching excellence. Our heritage stretches back to Charlotte Mason College (est. 1892) in Ambleside and the renowned St Martin’s College in Lancaster. We’ve trained over 10,000 teachers in the last decade alone, making us one of the largest providers of teaching training in the UK. 

When you join us, you’ll become part of a vibrant community committed to making a real, lifelong difference in the lives of children. Our courses place a strong emphasis on inclusive teaching, so you can unlock the potential of every learner. You’ll get practical classroom experience, and you’ll also have the opportunity to gain extra qualifications and training to make you stand out in the job market. 

Apply today and become the next University of Cumbria graduate to secure a rewarding job from the No.1 University in the Northwest and Top 10 in the UK for Graduates into employment or further study within 15 months (97% of Graduates – Graduate Outcomes Survey, HESA 2025).

WHAT IS QTS?

Qualified Teacher Status, also referred to as QTS, is a legal requirement for teaching in schools that are funded by local authorities across England and Northern Ireland, and is widely regarded as a valuable qualification for teachers in the UK and internationally.

PRIMARY PGCE

Train to inspire young learners through Early Years (3–7) or General Primary (5–11) teaching, with specialist pathways to develop your expertise.

SECONDARY PGCE

Prepare to teach the subject you’re passionate about – English, Geography, History, Maths, Languages, RE, PE, Sciences – and inspire future generations.

SCHOOL-BASED PGCE

Immerse yourself in school life from day one with training delivered in partnership with leading schools across Cumbria, Lancashire and Greater Manchester.

PGCE NON-QTS ONLINE

Boost your teaching credentials with flexible, fully online postgraduate training designed for education professionals in work.
Student teachers in a classroom Banner Image

WHY TRAIN TO TEACH?

COMPETITIVE SALARY

Once you qualify, you’ll enter a profession with a competitive starting salary and clear opportunities for pay progression. Teaching offers structured pay scales and secure career development, giving you a rewarding future.

A CAREER FOR THE FUTURE

Teaching is a profession that will always be needed. Skilled, passionate teachers are in demand across the country, offering long-term stability and the reassurance that your role will always matter.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Few careers offer the chance to have such a lasting impact. As a teacher, you’ll inspire young people, support them to overcome challenges, and help them reach their potential every single day.

TEACH ANYWHERE

A teaching qualification from the University of Cumbria is recognised across the UK and valued by schools around the world. Whether you want to teach locally or explore opportunities abroad, your skills and qualification can take you there.

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Education Events

Want to find out more about teacher training at the University of Cumbria?  

Join one of our on-campus or online events to: 

  • Meet the lecturers who will support your training 
  • Discover how placements work and the support available 
  • Hear first-hand from current trainees about their experiences 
  • Get personalised guidance on routes into teaching and funding 
View Education Events

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a PGCE?

What subjects and age ranges can I train to teach?

Can I work during the PGCE?

Can I choose where I complete my placements?

Do I need school experience before applying?

What funding is available for PGCE students?

Can I teach abroad with a PGCE from the University of Cumbria?