PGCE Chemistry

Our Chemistry PGCE initial teacher education programme blends continuous hands-on school experience with a thorough understanding of the school science curriculum. 

You'll learn all the latest developments in science education and be guided by dedicated and knowledgeable tutors who have extensive experience teaching science. Some of the top science teachers and senior leaders in our area will also contribute to the high-quality training you receive.

Chemistry will be your PGCE specialism but you'll graduate with the skills, knowledge, and experience to teach all 3 sciences at Key Stage 3 and GCSE. You'll also be ready to teach chemistry to post-16 students in schools or colleges.

You'll be awarded a PGCE and QTS once you've completed this subject-specific programme. A specialism in chemistry will enhance your employability throughout a wide range of schools and colleges in the UK. 

Chemistry 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. 

You'll explore:

• 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 (like climate change, genetic engineering, and evironmental questions) into your teaching
• how to use practical work effectively
• how to make science accessible to all

You'll also have structured opportunities to prepare and conduct fieldwork experiences and get an introduction to post-16 teaching in your chemistry specialism.

We'll also equip you with essential skills and strategies to:

• meet professional expectations
• manage behaviour in the classroom
• monitor and assess pupils
• support children with special educational needs and disabilitie
• keep children safe