Physical Education & PGCEi & Teacher Assessment Ready

Aimed towards aspiring educators, this master’s programme is tailored to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of physical education.



Our students can use this integrated programme with dual qualifications as an entry pathway to becoming a PE teacher, preparing you to apply for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) via the Assessment Only (AO) route in the UK.



QTS is an English teaching qualification, application for registration with the Teaching Council of Ireland can subsequently be made through the “qualified abroad route” and is reviewed by the council on a case-by-case basis.



Awarded by Liverpool John Moore’s University (LJMU), graduates will hold an instantly recognised degree from one of the world’s leading universities for sports science and physical education. Upon successful completion of the programme, a graduation ceremony will be arranged by Portobello Institute.

Contemporary content for modern day physical education



During the master’s programme, you will learn how to effectively plan, teach, and utilise assessment methods within your specific subject area. Drawing upon a wide range of Physical Education knowledge and pedagogical approaches, you will develop the skills to create engaging and impactful learning experiences.



The content of the PGCEi will support you to deepen your knowledge and critical understanding of principles and theories relating to education, teaching and learning. To identify and apply strategies and methods which translate into effective teaching, learning and assessment practices in the educational environment.



The QTS Assessment Only (AO) route is a fast-track option for experienced teachers, typically lasting 12-16 weeks. It’s designed for those already teaching who can demonstrate they meet the required teaching standards without further training.



Candidates provide evidence of their teaching skills through a portfolio, classroom observations, and interviews. Assessment usually takes place in the candidate’s current school or a secured placement if they are not currently teaching.



Contemporary content for modern day physical education



During the master’s programme, you will learn how to effectively plan, teach, and utilise assessment methods within your specific subject area. Drawing upon a wide range of Physical Education knowledge and pedagogical approaches, you will develop the skills to create engaging and impactful learning experiences.



The content of the PGCEi will support you to deepen your knowledge and critical understanding of principles and theories relating to education, teaching and learning. To identify and apply strategies and methods which translate into effective teaching, learning and assessment practices in the educational environment.



The QTS Assessment Only (AO) route is a fast-track option for experienced teachers, typically lasting 12-16 weeks. It’s designed for those already teaching who can demonstrate they meet the required teaching standards without further training.



Candidates provide evidence of their teaching skills through a portfolio, classroom observations, and interviews. Assessment usually takes place in the candidate’s current school or a secured placement if they are not currently teaching.



Research Methods and Physical Education Pedagogy 20 Credits

Physical Education as a Learning Process 20 Credits

Teaching Efficacy and Teacher Development 20 Credits

History, Policy and International Development of Curriculum of PE 20 Credits

Physical Education Teacher Education and Development 20 Credits

Physical Literacy and Universal Models in Physical Education 20 Credits

Dissertation in Physical Education 60 Credits

To be eligible for the Assessment Only route, you must meet the following criteria:



Teaching Experience: You should have a minimum of two years of teaching experience, which includes a minimum of 3 months (one semester) in at least two different schools.

Degree Qualification: Hold a UK undergraduate degree or an equivalent qualification.



Irish Leaving Certificate and UK GCSE Requirements when awarded from 2017 onwards: Every subject passed at Higher level, where grades of 1-7 have been achieved, may be considered at least comparable to GCSE grades A*-C/9-4 Every subject passed at Ordinary level, where grades of 1-4 have been achieved, may be comparable to GCSE grades A8-C/9-4.

Irish Leaving Certificate and UK GCSE Requirements when awarded up to and including 2016: Every subject passed at Higher level, where grades of A-D/ A1-D3 have been achieved, may be considered at least comparable to GCSE grades A*-C/9-4 Every subject passed at Ordinary level, where grades of A-C/ A1-C3 have been achieved, may be comparable to GCSE grades A8-C/9-4.



Subject Knowledge: Demonstrate strong subject knowledge in the area you wish to teach.



Teaching Standards: Provide evidence that you meet the Teachers’ Standards across all areas.



School Support: Have the support of a school willing to host your assessment and provide a suitable environment for evaluation.



Applicants will be required to have a minimum of a 2.2 (or equivalent) in a related subject discipline. You should also submit an up-to-date CV and copies of awards/professional qualifications.



For non-standard entry, applicants would need to be able to demonstrate a comparable academic standard through past studies and relevant work experience.



All potential candidates are required to demonstrate competence in the English language.

2 Years blended.

Start Date: 11th October 2025