Education - History - PGCE

About

The course offers graduates wishing to progress into post-primary education the opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills to become an effective teacher of history. You are introduced to the most recent research-informed developments in history curriculum and pedagogy, relevant to teaching the Northern Ireland Curriculum. History's place in the curriculum is established along with its links to other subject areas. Throughout the course history teaching is related to wider educational themes including learning theory, the improvement of literacy and numeracy, classroom and behaviour management, assessment and to developing students' skills in Information and Communication Technology.



The PGCE is both an academic and a professional qualification. On successful completion of initial teacher education student teachers will be able to evidence their competence and be awarded the Post Graduate Certificate in Education allowing them to register with the General Teaching Council of Northern Ireland. They will also accrue 60 CATS points towards a Master’s degree in Education. In total the PGCE is worth 120 points (60 at Master’s Level 7 and 60 at Post graduate Level 6).



While the initial motivation for wishing to enter this course may be to teach a specialist subject, it is important to recognise that there is much which is covered that is generic to teaching and learning in all subjects. In addition to academic achievement, teachers are prepared for contributing to young people's development as individuals, and as contributors to society, the economy and the environment.



In Northern Ireland history teaching has an important role in helping young people understand past conflict so that they can better contribute to a more just and peaceful society. The PGCE programme is committed to education contributing to the vision of Northern Irish society as a shared society. Those enrolling can expect to be challenged to reflect on the impact education can have on a society emerging from conflict.



Work placement / study abroad

Twenty four weeks of the programme are school-based. This includes one week in a primary school and two 11-12 week placements in post-primary schools.

Year One

School Experience 1

School Experience 2

Foundation for Learning and Teaching

Developing Effective Learning and Teaching

Principles of Religious Education - This module is optional

Improving Practice in Religious Education - This module is optional

a. GCSE passes at Grade C or above in English and Mathematics (or equivalent qualification). (Please note Essential Skills Level 2 qualifications are not regarded as equivalent for entry to this professional course).



b. At least a 2:2 Honours (or above) degree directly related to History. Alternatively, applicants may possess a Master's degree that is linked to the specialist PGCE subject on offer. In the case of a combined Honours degree, at least 50% of the degree shall be in the specialist subject.



c. Two acceptable references must be supplied - one academic, one character.



d. Medical certificate of satisfactory health



e. Applicants will be scrutinised by Access NI procedures to ensure that they do not have a criminal record and must also satisfy the University and the Department of Education regulations that nothing would legally prohibit them from working with children.



f. Evidence of good quality presentation and basic literacy skills are required throughout the application process. The application form will be examined for spelling, punctuation and grammar skills. Applicants will also be expected to complete a set piece of formal writing as part of the selection process.



g. Applicants should comply with the DE Circular requirements as outlined in Initial Teacher Education: Approval of Programmes document.



H. Demonstrate evidence of knowledge and interest in working with young people of post-primary age.



Additional criteria



In order to facilitate a manageable shortlist, the following criteria will be applied: At least 2 weeks experience in working with young people of post-primary age gained within the past two years. This must be evidenced in the application form and candidates meeting these criteria will be interviewed to ascertain their suitability for the course. An offer of a place will be conditional upon satisfying the Selection Committee on all of the above criteria.



English Language Requirements

English language requirements for international applicants

The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.



Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.

The closing date for applications is 8 January 2025. Applications received after the closing date may be considered at the discretion of the selection panel.

Attendance

PGCE is a full time course. It is 36 weeks in length. Attendance is compulsory.

Start Date: September 2025

Career options

The PGCE course prepares you to teach History in a Post Primary school or college. Successful completion of this course qualifies you to seek registration with the General Teaching Council of Northern Ireland.



On the post-primary strand of the programme the focus is on preparing you to teach 11 to 18 year olds in the formal education sector. However, there may also be opportunities to work in education related fields, including as an education officer in a non -government organisation or a museum.