PGCE guide
How to revise for the PGCE
The PGCE isn't a traditional exam — 'revision' means preparing assignments, evidencing the Teachers' Standards, and rehearsing lessons for placement. Below, how to structure that work so you pass with QTS without burning out.
Assignments — engage with research
Master's-level assignments reward critical engagement with pedagogy research, not descriptive reflection. Read at least 8–12 sources per assignment and reference them explicitly.
Teachers' Standards evidence log
Keep a rolling log from week 1. Every lesson plan, observation form, and student work sample maps to one or more standards. Retrofitting evidence at the end is the classic failure pattern.
Lesson planning cadence
Full plans for every observed lesson, streamlined plans for routine lessons. Trying to write full plans for every lesson is the fastest route to burnout.
Reflection is not a diary
University tutors want structured reflection: what happened, what you'd change, what pedagogy research says. Use Gibbs' or Kolb's cycle explicitly.
FAQs
- How many hours a week is the PGCE?
- 50–60 hours during placement blocks. Non-placement weeks are lighter.
- How do I get QTS?
- By meeting all Teachers' Standards across placements and passing university assignments. Both are required.
- Can I fail placement but pass academically?
- No. Failing placement without a passable resolution means no QTS, regardless of assignment marks.
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