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PGCE Secondary Art & Design with recommendation for QTS

Foundation

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Secondary students at front of class

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PGCE Secondary Art & Design with recommendation for QTS

Birmingham Newman University’s Secondary PGCE programme provides a comprehensive and supportive pathway into teaching.

You’ll receive tailored guidance and placements that match your aspirations, with a focus on inclusion and diverse learning environments. Our experienced tutors and expert networks ensure you gain the knowledge and confidence to excel in the classroom. From early induction to career-focused school placements, we help you develop into a skilled teacher capable of making a real difference in the lives of students. From a thorough induction to career-focused placements, the programme is designed to help you grow into a reflective and impactful educator.

Community-focused mentorship is embedded in our approach, with many of our PGCE graduates becoming mentors themselves, supporting the next generation of teachers and giving back to local communities. This commitment to community and professional development is a hallmark of the programme’s success and the lasting impact of its students.

Why study this course

Birmingham Newman University’s Secondary PGCE programme offers a dynamic, hands-on approach to teacher training. With personalised support, we ensure that each trainee receives the guidance they need to succeed. Our unique placement system connects you with schools that match your career aspirations, including specialist placements in areas like social, emotional, and mental health.

You’ll be trained in inclusive teaching strategies, with a particular emphasis on SEND adaptation, allowing you to cater to diverse student needs effectively. Our strong Ofsted report reflects the quality of the programme, ensuring you’re equipped to make a lasting impact on your students.

The course also offers early online induction, ensuring you feel supported and engaged from the start. With a broad network of subject experts, school partners, and professional organisations, you’ll have opportunities to build meaningful connections within the education sector.

By the end of the programme, you’ll be ready to step confidently into the classroom, having received the knowledge, skills, and practical experience to transform education for future generations.

The Art & Design PGCE gives Art graduates and professionals the opportunity to hone their creative skills while developing their understanding of how to teach within this subject area. Trainees have access to a broad curriculum base, both at university and with expert school partners. Trainees are encouraged to explore the broad possibilities of an art & design curriculum and we welcome applications from a wide range of artistic backgrounds.

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Entry Requirements UK home students Entry requirements, for UK home students, for September 2025: A UK Bachelors Degree (or recognised?equivalent qualification – https://getintoteaching.education.gov.uk/is-teaching-right-for-me/qualifications-you-need-to-teach) of which 50% content must be related to the named subject, and this will be a condition of any offer where the degree has not already been awarded. GCSE English Language and Mathematics at grade 4 (or C) or above (or recognised equivalents). Please be aware that whilst these GCSEs are not mandatory at application point, these qualifications must be obtained by enrolment. See our page on additional?GCSE Equivalency?test information (https://newman.ac.uk/study/how-to-apply/entry-requirements/gcse-equivalent-qualifications/) School experience is not a requirement for entry to the programme.?However, having experience in a school will support your preparation for training as a teacher. At interview you will be asked about any experiences that you have with school aged children and your understanding of teaching within your chosen age range. The quality and variety of your personal statement is an important factor in the decision to call you to interview. You will need to obtain Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance and meet the requirements for?fitness to train to teach?(https://newman.ac.uk/study/routes-into-teaching/ite-offer-information/) prior to starting the course and be assured against a set of fundamental maths and English skills by the end of your PGCE. For more information on your DBS application please visit the?How do I complete my DBS form?advice page (https://newman.ac.uk/study/how-to-apply/disclosure-and-barring-service-dbs/). For further information about the Interview Process see our?PGCE Secondary ITE Interview?page (https://newman.ac.uk/study/routes-into-teaching/pgce-secondary-ite-interviews/). For full entry requirements please see our?admission requirements?page (https://newman.ac.uk/study/how-to-apply/entry-requirements/). Bursaries & Scholarships The Department for Education has announced the financial incentives for ITT courses. You can find out more about this here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/funding-initial-teacher-training-itt

The tuition fee for academic year 2025/26 is: £9,535

Additional costs

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A critical analysis of adaptive practice in subject
30 Credits (Compulsory)

This module provides opportunities for you as a trainee teacher to develop your ability to reflect on your practice in school understanding how the taught content, underpinned by research, has informed and influenced your practice in school. Education is an ever-changing environment and the desire for improvement is strong from all stakeholders. This module helps you to understand that engaging in professional development can positively impact the learning experience of your pupils. Implicit in this will be the development of your understanding of your personal teacher identity and the impact on pupil outcomes. You will also have the opportunity to develop an understanding of how children learn and how this is organised, within your subject area. This module is informed by classroom-based evidence, the use of subject research literature and underpinned by pedagogy.

A critical discussion of behaviour management
30 Credits (Compulsory)

This is one of two academic modules to be completed alongside school experience during the PGCE training year. This module is designed to align with university taught content and school-based placement.. The Module is assessed by successful completion of a 4,000-word written assignment. You will understand the holistic and positive role of a teacher and the practices and policies of the education framework in which you operate. Implicit in this will be the development of your understanding of your personal teacher identity and the impact on pupil outcomes. You will also have the opportunity to develop an understanding of how children learn and behave.

A critical discussion of behaviour management
30 Credits (Compulsory)

This is one of two academic modules to be completed alongside school experience during the PGCE training year. This module is designed to align with university taught content and school-based placement.. The Module is assessed by successful completion of a 4,000-word written assignment. You will understand the holistic and positive role of a teacher and the practices and policies of the education framework in which you operate. Implicit in this will be the development of your understanding of your personal teacher identity and the impact on pupil outcomes. You will also have the opportunity to develop an understanding of how children learn and behave.

A critical analysis of adaptive practice in subject
30 Credits (Compulsory)

This module provides opportunities for you as a trainee teacher to develop your ability to reflect on your practice in school understanding how the taught content, underpinned by research, has informed and influenced your practice in school. Education is an ever-changing environment and the desire for improvement is strong from all stakeholders. This module helps you to understand that engaging in professional development can positively impact the learning experience of your pupils. Implicit in this will be the development of your understanding of your personal teacher identity and the impact on pupil outcomes. You will also have the opportunity to develop an understanding of how children learn and how this is organised, within your subject area. This module is informed by classroom-based evidence, the use of subject research literature and underpinned by pedagogy.

A critical discussion of behaviour management
30 Credits (Compulsory)

This is one of two academic modules to be completed alongside school experience during the PGCE training year. This module is designed to align with university taught content and school-based placement.. The Module is assessed by successful completion of a 4,000-word written assignment. You will understand the holistic and positive role of a teacher and the practices and policies of the education framework in which you operate. Implicit in this will be the development of your understanding of your personal teacher identity and the impact on pupil outcomes. You will also have the opportunity to develop an understanding of how children learn and behave.

A critical analysis of adaptive practice in subject
30 Credits (Compulsory)

This module provides opportunities for you as a trainee teacher to develop your ability to reflect on your practice in school understanding how the taught content, underpinned by research, has informed and influenced your practice in school. Education is an ever-changing environment and the desire for improvement is strong from all stakeholders. This module helps you to understand that engaging in professional development can positively impact the learning experience of your pupils. Implicit in this will be the development of your understanding of your personal teacher identity and the impact on pupil outcomes. You will also have the opportunity to develop an understanding of how children learn and how this is organised, within your subject area. This module is informed by classroom-based evidence, the use of subject research literature and underpinned by pedagogy.

Studying and living in Birmingham

At Birmingham Newman University, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds: a peaceful, green campus that creates the ideal setting for focused study and personal reflection, yet remains just eight miles from the vibrant city centre.

As the UK’s second-largest city, Birmingham is also one of the youngest and most diverse in Europe, offering a dynamic blend of culture, innovation and opportunity. From world-renowned museums and music venues to a thriving food scene alongside a growing business and tech sector, it’s a place where creativity and ambition naturally thrive.

Experience Birmingham: A City Full of Possibilities

Whether you're discovering the Midlands for the first time or already know the area well, Birmingham provides a lively and inclusive environment for students. As one of the most energetic and multicultural cities in the UK, it’s a place where you can grow academically while developing personally. Its rich cultural heritage, creative energy and broad range of opportunities make it an inspiring backdrop for your university journey.

A City That Loves Great Food

Birmingham is a brilliant place to explore diverse culinary experiences. You might wander through the famous Balti Triangle, sample global street food at Digbeth Dining Club or enjoy a relaxed meal by the canals in Brindleyplace. The city is also home to independent cafés, vegan-friendly eateries and countless hidden gems. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite between lectures or planning an evening out, there’s always something new to discover.

Arts, Culture and Entertainment

The city pulses with creativity. You could catch live music at the O2 Academy, experience a world-class performance at the Birmingham Hippodrome or browse exhibitions at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. Creative spaces like the Custard Factory showcase local talent while hosting events that celebrate innovation. With festivals, sporting fixtures and cultural celebrations taking place year-round, there’s never a shortage of things to enjoy.

Simple & Convenient Travel

Getting around Birmingham is straightforward thanks to its well-connected public transport system. Buses, trams and trains make it easy to reach campus, explore the city or travel further afield. Whether you're commuting daily or heading off for a weekend adventure, transport is both accessible and affordable.

Life Beyond the Lecture Hall

Your time at Birmingham Newman University extends far beyond academic study. You’ll have the chance to join student societies, contribute to community projects or try something entirely new. The university’s supportive atmosphere encourages you to build confidence, develop practical skills and feel genuinely at home throughout your studies.

Ofsted

The ITE secondary programme is securely based on a vision of ‘changing lives, shaping futures’. The university has designed a course that models and teaches high ambition, inclusive practice and secure subject knowledge.

Course tutors know trainees and placement schools very well. Relationships are valued by all. Partner schools embrace the shared values and professional respect that defines the partnership. This provides an excellent role model for trainees, who quickly demonstrate these same professional behaviours.

Trainees benefit from the carefully and skilfully developed ‘Newman curriculum’. Based on four interconnecting themes, the curriculum is sequenced well to ensure that all trainees develop a rich and deep knowledge of effective teaching. The curriculum is particularly effective at promoting trainees’ professional behaviours and their understanding of adaptive practice. This helps trainees to become inclusive, resilient teachers who want the very best for the pupils that they teach. Subject experts design and deliver the well-considered subject curriculums, ensuring that it fully covers the CCF.

Centre-based staff build very positive relationships with partner schools. These relationships are grounded on a collective ambition to train teachers who have the skills to teach in the local community and beyond. Centre-based training and school placement experiences are explicitly linked so that trainees have every opportunity to apply their learning in classroom practice.

Leaders step in quickly to provide support and guidance to mentors who need it. Leaders ensure there are effective systems to monitor the progress of trainees. Clear weekly targets, based on lesson observations and coverage of the curriculum ‘big questions’ ensure that trainees continue to strengthen their practice.

The pastoral support provided to trainees is a strength of the provision. There is a structured programme of support available for trainees who may need it. This means that trainees are fully supported, whatever their needs. Trainees are highly appreciative of the care and support they receive during and beyond their training.

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