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Teacher Training

Our Professional Graduate Certificate and Certificate in Education provide a clear route into teaching across the post‑14 sector, preparing you for roles in further education, schools, adult and community learning, prison education, higher education, and workplace training. Validated by The University of Suffolk, these qualifications are open to both graduates and those with relevant vocational experience, offering a solid foundation for professional teacher training.

Study options

  • Pre-service (full-time): Delivered at Suffolk New College, with two half days per week on campus and additional placement days.
  • In-service (part-time): For those currently teaching or training in a paid/voluntary role, requiring one half day per week attendance at Suffolk New College.

Assessment

Continuous assessment via essays, reports, assignments, microteaches, professional discussions, presentation, academic posters and practical teaching observations.

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Teacher during a training session

Why choose this course?

The PGCE/Cert Ed at Suffolk New College is designed specifically for those looking to teach in further education (FE) and skills settings. The course focuses on developing the practical teaching skills needed in FE environments, with an emphasis on learner centered approaches and enhancing the skills of both students and educators. Through a combination of theory and practice, participants gain the knowledge and confidence to deliver high quality education in colleges, training providers, and adult education settings. This ensures graduates are well prepared to meet the diverse needs of learners in the FE sector.

News & Events
Learning environment at Suffolk New College with students studying and collaborating in a vibrant educational setting.

What will this course give you?

  • Recognised Qualification: The PGCE is recognised in the Further Education and Skills sector for employment as a teacher. It provides a basis for higher qualifications like Master’s degrees or professional doctorates.
  • Career Pathways: Graduates can work in a wide range of settings such as general FE colleges, sixth form centres, adult education institutions, prison education, and training providers.
  • Key Teacher Skills: Understanding theory and pedagogy, creating a successful learning climate, planning and teaching engaging lessons, Using assessment to inform planning
Case studies
An instructor provides practical training to students in a workshop environment at Suffolk New College.

Teacher Training Experience

Throughout the programme, you will:

 

  • Learn core teaching principles, including session planning and delivery.
  • Study behaviour management and assessment strategies.
  • Explore debates influencing your subject area.
  • Engage in reflective practice with tutors and mentors.
  • Complete regular observations and reviews to support your growth.
Course overview

Employability

This course develops highly transferable skills essential for teachers, such as:

  • Empathy
  • Patience
  • Active listening
  • Cultural awareness and sensitivity
  • Resilience

Through teaching practice, you’ll also develop workplace awareness and professional behaviour norms around respect for others, sustainability, equality, Inclusion & diversity, and health & safety.

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A diverse group of students participating in a classroom lecture at Suffolk New College, gaining higher education and vocational training.
Daniel Russell Poole - Catering Lecturer

It was 16 years since I’d been in a classroom when I started the programme, but the mentors were phenomenal and helped with the transition

Daniel Russell Poole
Lecturer
Rebecka Smart - Beauty Lecturer

I wanted to do this as it (being a lecturer in health and beauty) combines my two passions in one.

Rebecka Smart
Lecturer

Teacher Training FAQs

News

Adults in a classroom environment
  • Become a Teacher

Funded opportunities to complete your Teacher Training

To address the growing need for high-quality educators in priority subjects, the UK government has 2 funded routes you could apply for.

April 28, 2023 | 1 min read
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Course Information

Applications for this course are made through The University of Suffolk website.

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Ofsted Report

In March 2022 we were awarded an Ofsted ‘Good’ grade for our Teacher Training provision.

Ofsted Report
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Funding & Bursaries

Undergraduates and postgraduates can get help with the costs of their teacher training.

GOV.UK
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Teach in FE

If you have real-world industry experience, you already have what it takes to teach in further education (FE).

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Contact Us

If you have any questions about the course please contact the teacher training team on 01473 382200 or email ITETutors@suffolk.ac.uk

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