PGCE - Additional Learning Needs (Primary 3-11)
Bangor , United Kingdom
PGCE - Additional Learning Needs (Primary 3-11)
Prifysgol Bangor University
Education - Additional Learning Needs
Program Overview: PGCE Additional Learning Needs (Primary 3-11)
This PGCE in primary education is designed to provide you with a deep understanding of how children learn and equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to develop as a creative and innovative teacher. The programme places a specific focus on Additional Learning Needs (ALN), a term used to describe learning difficulties or disabilities that make it harder for a child to learn compared to other children of the same age.
By focusing on ALN, also widely known as special educational needs, you will learn about children's development through ages 3 to 11, including neurodiverse learners. You will explore different approaches to teaching dependent on the learner and how best to support children with ALN throughout their educational journey.
The programme is co-constructed, delivered, and assessed with a network of partnership schools across the region. Mainstream and special schools with well-trained mentors will support your progress towards Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) in accordance with Professional Standards for Teaching and Leadership in Wales. The PGCE with QTS is recognised across Wales and England and is often transferable further afield for entry into the teaching profession.
Key Program Highlights
- Earn Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) recognised across Wales and England, with potential transferability internationally
- Specialist focus on Additional Learning Needs including neurodiversity, preparing you for roles in mainstream and special schools
- Extensive school-based placements in primary and special schools through the CaBan partnership network
- Delivered by experienced tutors and researchers with international expertise in educational leadership theory and practice
Curriculum and Modules
The PGCE ALN (Primary 3-11) curriculum combines university-based study with extensive school placements. You will explore established learning theories, evidence-based teaching approaches, and specialist ALN pedagogy, all aligned with the Curriculum for Wales framework. Module listings are for guidance purposes and may be subject to change.
Primary School Experience
60 CreditsThis core module develops your competency in teaching and learning through school-based placements. It includes collaboratively led close-to-practice seminars and follows a progressive staged approach to learning how to teach.
Professional, Pedagogical and Core Studies in Primary Education
30 CreditsExplore established learning theories from Piaget, Vygotsky, Dewey, Bruner, Hattie, and Dweck. You will develop analytical tools to critically evaluate learning and concepts of pedagogy within your teaching context.
Primary Subject Studies
30 CreditsExplore current evidence-based approaches to teaching pupils in the Foundation Phase and Key Stage 2 across all Areas of Learning and Experience (AoLE). Assessment theories and their links to pedagogy, learning, and progress are also covered.
This specialist module focuses on understanding and supporting children with additional learning needs, including strategies for differentiation, inclusive practice, and working with neurodiverse learners in primary settings.
Engage in practitioner-led research within your placement school, developing skills in evidence-based inquiry to improve teaching practice and outcomes for learners with diverse needs.
Enhanced Placement and Enrichment Opportunities
Admission Requirements
This PGCE programme is open to graduates who are passionate about supporting children with additional learning needs. International applicants are welcome, and you do not need to live in Wales or speak Welsh to apply. All applications and inquiries should be submitted through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeAt least a 2:2 honours degree or equivalent in an area related to the subject of study
- English / Welsh GCSEGrade C / Grade 4 in GCSE English Language, English Literature, Welsh First Language, or Welsh Literature
- Mathematics GCSEGrade C / Grade 4 in GCSE Mathematics or Mathematics-Numeracy
- Science GCSEGrade C / Grade 4 in GCSE Science
- DBS CheckEnhanced DBS check for the child workforce including a check of the children's barred lists is required
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall score of 7.0, with no element below 6.5
- Equivalent QualificationsOther equivalent English language qualifications accepted; contact Uni4Edu for details
- ExemptionsNative English speakers and graduates from English-medium degree programmes may be exempt; check with Uni4Edu
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Various funding opportunities are available to support your PGCE studies at Bangor University. These include Welsh Government incentives for teacher training, university-specific bursaries, and alumni discounts. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance on funding options available to you.
Welsh Government ITE Priority Subject Incentive
Up to GBP 15,000 (subject to eligibility and degree classification)Incentive grants are available to eligible students undertaking a postgraduate ITE programme in Wales leading to QTS. Payments are made in instalments during the programme and early career. Eligibility is announced annually by the Welsh Government.
Bangor University Alumni Scholarship
20% reduction in feesBangor University offers a 20% reduction in fees to all home and international self-funding former students who have graduated with an honours degree from Bangor and register for an eligible taught Masters-level programme including PGCE.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Completing this PGCE with QTS opens the door to a rewarding career in primary education with a specialist focus on additional learning needs. The CaBan programmes prepare you for a wide range of roles within education and develop essential leadership skills that set you apart from other newly qualified teachers.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings and Recognition
Bangor University is one of the oldest degree-awarding institutions in Wales, founded in 1884. It is recognised internationally for its research and teaching quality, with strong subject-specific rankings in several disciplines. The university has been named top in Wales in the 2026 University Compare Rankings.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture and Forestry | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 150 |
| Psychology | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 350 |
| Environmental Sciences | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 350 |
| Education | Complete University Guide / Guardian | Contact Uni4Edu for current data |
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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