Secondary education in Science with Physics (QTS)

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Sunderland

Program Overview

This one-year PGCE gives you the skills and confidence to become an inspiring secondary Physics teacher, blending hands-on classroom placements with supportive university training. It’s perfect for graduates who enjoy science and want to make a real impact in young people’s learning.

Curriculum Structure

University-Based Training

You start by exploring how pupils learn, how to plan engaging lessons, and how to manage a classroom effectively. Alongside this, you build strong subject knowledge in Physics and Science—developing practical teaching strategies for topics like forces, electricity, and waves.

School Experience 1

Your first placement introduces you to real classroom dynamics. You’ll begin teaching with close mentor support, gradually taking responsibility for lesson planning, assessment, and working with different groups of learners.

School Experience 2

Your final placement gives you greater independence as you teach across Key Stages 3 and 4. This is where you refine your practice, demonstrate the Teachers’ Standards, and step confidently into your role as a new Physics teacher.

Focus Areas

Physics pedagogy, secondary science curriculum, practical lab teaching, behaviour management, assessment for learning, inclusive practice, safeguarding.

Learning Outcomes

Deliver effective Physics and Science lessons, manage classrooms confidently, assess pupil progress accurately, strengthen subject knowledge, and meet the Teachers’ Standards to qualify for QTS.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program leads directly to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), recognised by the UK Department for Education.

Reputation (Employability)

Sunderland has a long-standing reputation in teacher training, with strong school partnerships and high employability for newly qualified Physics and Science teachers.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

On this PGCE, your learning is built around real classroom experience. From the very start, you’re not just studying how to teach — you’re stepping into real schools, working with experienced teachers, and developing the confidence you’ll need as a future Physics educator. Back on campus, you’ll be based in modern teaching spaces at the Sir Tom Cowie Campus, with access to dedicated learning rooms, strong IT support, and a well-resourced library to help you plan lessons and develop your pedagogy.

Here’s how your hands-on training comes to life:

Extensive school placements: You’ll spend around 120 days in secondary schools, gradually taking on teaching responsibilities and learning the rhythm of classroom life.
Placement support: The University’s Placements Office helps match you with suitable schools and offers guidance throughout your experience.
Real classroom practice: You’ll plan lessons, teach classes, assess pupil progress, and reflect on your teaching with support from school mentors and university tutors.
Workshops and seminars: On-campus sessions strengthen your subject knowledge, develop your teaching style, and help you link educational theory to what you’re seeing in schools.
Learning spaces and resources: You’ll have access to study areas, digital tools, and a comprehensive library — everything you need to research, collaborate, and prepare for your placements.

These experiences ensure you graduate not just with a qualification, but with the practical confidence and professional mindset to begin your career as a Physics teacher.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the PGCE in Secondary Education in Science with Physics (QTS) step into the profession with real confidence, ready to make an immediate impact in the classroom. Most go straight into roles such as Secondary School Physics Teacher, Science Teacher, Curriculum Developer, or Education Consultant, supported by the strong reputation of Sunderland’s teacher-training programmes and the professional recognition that comes with QTS.

You’ll have a clear path into employment thanks to the practical focus of the course and the university’s connections with schools. And because newly qualified teachers in England benefit from a nationally set starting salary, you enter the workforce with strong earning potential and steady career progression ahead.

Here’s what supports your future success:

Dedicated careers support: Guidance on CVs, interview preparation, and job applications, along with the Placements Office connecting you with a wide network of partner schools.
Strong employment prospects: Newly qualified teachers in England receive a competitive starting salary, with additional financial incentives often available during training for Physics specialists.
Professional partnerships: Long-standing relationships with schools help you build contacts and gain meaningful experience throughout your placements.
Enduring accreditation: Earning QTS provides a long-term professional credential recognised across the UK and valued internationally.
Positive graduate outcomes: Most students move directly into teaching roles or related education positions, supported by extensive placement experience.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing the PGCE, you could continue your studies with postgraduate options such as a Master of Education or International Education, preparing you for future roles in leadership, teacher training, or educational research.