PGCE Biology

Our PGCE Biology initial teacher education programme covers all the best elements of practical experience in school. You’ll also gain a deep understanding of the school science curriculum and of how young people learn science. 

The PGCE Biology programme is led by our dedicated and knowledgeable tutors, who have extensive experience teaching science in schools. Some of the best science teachers and senior leaders contribute to the high-quality training we provide.

You’ll specialise in secondary biology but you’ll graduate with the knowledge, skills and experience to teach all 3 sciences at Key Stage 3 and GCSE. You’ll also be able to teach biology to post-16 students in schools or colleges.

Training as a science teacher with a biology specialism, on a subject-specific programme will maximise your employability. You’ll receive a PGCE and QTS and be qualified to work in the full range of schools and colleges in the UK.

Biology PGCE curriculum

The programme covers all elements of the Initial Teacher Training and Early Career Framework (ITTECF) set by the Department for Education (DfE) for initial teacher training. 

The course goes much deeper into subject-specific areas and covers:

• the different types of knowledge in school science
• effective sequencing across science topics
• how to make explanations of abstract science concepts clear and engaging
• how to incorporate socio-scientific issues (such as climate change, genetic engineering, and environmental questions) into teaching
• how to use practical work effectively
• how to make science accessible to all

You'll have the opportunity to prepare and conduct a fieldwork experience. The biology specialism also includes an introduction to post-16 teaching.

We'll also teach you essential skills and strategies to: 

• meet the professional expectations of teachers
• manage the classroom
• monitor and assess pupils
• support children with special educational needs and disabilities
• keep children safe