Physical Education (PGCE)

Award
Postgraduate Certificate in Education
Typical Offer
2:2 degree View full entry requirements
Duration
1 year
Course Type
Full-time
Campus
Highfield
Next course starts
September 2025

About this course

Develop the knowledge and skills to become a qualified PE teacher on this PGCE Secondary training course in physical education. You’ll split your time between the University of Southampton and school placements as you learn how to work with pupils aged 11 to 16 (Key Stages 3 and 4). You’ll qualify to work as a teacher in state-maintained and special schools in England and Wales.

On this course you’ll learn how to be a successful secondary school teacher specialising in physical education within the UK’s National Curriculum framework. 

We’ll train you in the PE-specific skills and knowledge you’ll need to teach young people how to: 

  • excel in a range of physical activities 
  • be physically active for sustained periods of time 
  • take part in competitive sports and activities 
  • lead healthy, active lives 

You’ll also learn how to: 

  • use effective teaching methods and resources 
  • manage the classroom 
  • monitor and assess pupils 
  • teach for equality and inclusion 

The course is divided into 2 parts - school-based experience and University-based experience. 

You'll spend time in 2 placement schools in the Southampton area, giving you the chance to experience lesson observation, team teaching, and working with small groups and whole classes 

You’ll work closely with your subject mentor through your placements. 

University-based work will prepare you for your placements, evaluate your school-based work, and develop key skills and good practice. Personal reflection and evaluation are a vital part of your training.

Talk to a tutor

Looking for more information? Send your question to one of our PGCE tutors.

We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes.

Our courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).

Course lead

Your course leader is Susie Fawcett, Senior Teaching Fellow in Southampton Education School. She has taught at both secondary and university level. Before joining the University of Southampton, she was a head of girls’ physical education, specialising in gymnastics and dance. Read Susie’s staff profile to find out more about her work.

Course location

This course is based at Highfield.

Awarding body

This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.

Download the Course Description Document

The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.