PGCE Secondary Science with Biology - PGCE
Holloway Campus, United Kingdom
PGCE Secondary Science with Biology
London Metropolitan University
Education - Secondary Science (Biology)
PGCE Secondary Science with Biology at London Metropolitan University
This Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA)-accredited PGCE Secondary Science with Biology course prepares you to become a competent teacher of science for students up to 14 years old and biology for 15 to 16-year-olds, leading to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). By arrangement, you may also have the opportunity to gain experience teaching in the 16 to 18 age range.
The programme combines university-based sessions at London Met's Holloway campus with extensive hands-on practical experience at partnership schools across London. You will develop teaching strategies, pedagogical techniques, and a deep understanding of how children learn, while engaging in collaborative projects and school-based assignments with fellow trainees.
This intensive PGCE takes full advantage of its London location to broaden your understanding of teaching in multicultural and diverse urban environments. Trainees on London Met's PGCE Secondary courses consistently attain high results, with the programme recognised for its inclusive, welcoming ethos and strong moral purpose as acknowledged by Ofsted.
Key Program Highlights
- Leads to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) enabling you to teach biology and science in secondary schools across England
- TRA-accredited course with two substantial school placements at London Met partnership schools
- Master's level PGCE qualification with credits that can count towards a full Master's degree
- Department for Education bursary available for eligible trainees to support living costs during training
Curriculum and Course Modules
The PGCE Secondary Science with Biology curriculum is designed around the Core Content Framework for Initial Teacher Training. It integrates university-based academic study with extensive classroom practice across two school placements, ensuring you develop both theoretical knowledge and practical teaching skills.
Curriculum Studies
Core ModuleDevelops your understanding of curriculum knowledge and pedagogical knowledge required as a science and biology teacher, including the ability to plan, teach, and assess engaging lessons that promote pupil progression.
Professional Practice
Core ModuleFocuses on developing the skills, experience, and understanding required to plan, deliver, and evaluate the appropriate areas of the science curriculum through school-based practice and reflective engagement.
School Placement 1
Core PlacementYour first substantial placement at a London Met partnership school where you develop lesson plans, teach science and biology classes, and contribute to pupils' scientific skills development under mentor guidance.
School Placement 2
Core PlacementA second placement at a contrasting school environment, allowing you to broaden your teaching experience and demonstrate competence across different school settings and pupil demographics.
Subject Knowledge Development
Core ModuleEnsures you develop confidence in teaching your specialist subject through a combination of assessment, self-assessment, target setting, personal study, and engagement with university teaching sessions.
Critical Reflective Practice
Core ModuleDevelops your ability to become a critically aware, reflective practitioner who can identify and employ the most appropriate evidence-based approaches to the challenges encountered in the classroom.
Specialist Focus Areas
Admission Requirements
To be considered for the PGCE Secondary Science with Biology at London Metropolitan University, you must meet specific academic, professional, and personal requirements. All applications are reviewed by the Admissions Office in conjunction with the Course Tutors for Sciences. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on your eligibility and application.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeA UK degree, preferably grade 2:2 or equivalent, in Biology or relevant degrees including geology, metallurgy, chemical engineering, and forensic science
- GCSE RequirementsGCSE English and Mathematics at grade C (grade 4) or above, or equivalent qualification
- Skills TestsLiteracy and numeracy tests — university-based tests undertaken at interview
- DBS and Health CheckValid Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate and Confirmation of Fitness to Teach (Health Check) — applied for after an offer is made
- Third Class Degree HoldersMay be considered if supported by a completed Master's degree or relevant work experience
English Language Requirements
- IELTSMinimum overall score of 6.0 with no band below 5.5 (or equivalent)
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score of 72 or equivalent
- Alternative QualificationsOther accepted English language qualifications — contact Uni4Edu for full details
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Several funding opportunities are available for eligible trainees undertaking the PGCE Secondary Science with Biology. The Department for Education offers tax-free bursaries for teacher training in biology, and London Met provides its own scholarship schemes. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised funding guidance.
DfE Biology Training Bursary
A tax-free, non-repayable bursary from the Department for Education available to eligible trainees with a qualifying degree classification. Bursary amounts vary by academic year and are subject to change — the 2025-26 rate was GBP 26,000 but the 2026-27 rate has been revised.
London Met Alumni Discount
20% tuition fee reductionGraduates of London Metropolitan University are entitled to a 20% discount on further study, including PGCE programmes. This discount applies automatically for eligible alumni.
International Bright Futures Scholarship
GBP 3,000Available to full-time international fee-paying students who are successful with their application to London Met. This scholarship includes a tuition fee reduction for the duration of studies. Note that visa restrictions may apply to this PGCE course.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Upon successful completion of this PGCE, you will hold Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), enabling you to teach biology and science in secondary schools across England. London Met trainees have gone on to secure teaching positions at a range of schools across London and beyond, with strong employment outcomes.
Potential Career Roles
Example Employers of Graduates
Rankings and Recognition
London Metropolitan University is recognised for its commitment to inclusive education, employability, and student support. The university holds accreditation from the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA) for its teacher training programmes and has received positive Ofsted reviews for its PGCE provision.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Teaching Quality | Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide | #9 in UK |
| Student Experience | Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide | #10 in UK |
| Biology | EduRank | #94 in UK |
| Education (Ofsted PGCE Rating) | Ofsted | Good |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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