Cameron Miranda
If you have a law degree and are interested in teaching, you may be able to pursue a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). While the PGCE requirements vary depending on the subject and institution, several universities in the UK accept law degrees for their PGCE programmes, particularly in English, history, and social sciences. However, it's important to note that some PGCE courses may require additional qualifications or experience, such as an A-Level in the subject you intend to teach or a Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) course. Additionally, the job market for certain subjects, like English and history, is highly competitive, and having a degree in the subject you want to teach may improve your employment prospects.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can you do a PGCE with a law degree? | Yes |
| PGCE specialism | English, Maths, Computer Science, Social Science, Religious Education |
| Additional requirements | A-Levels in the subject, Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) course, teaching experience |
| PGCE route | University, School Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT) |
| Other requirements | Right to work/study in the UK, visa |
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What You'll Learn
PGCE specialisms for law degree holders
While a law degree is not a typical route to becoming a teacher, it is possible to pursue a career in education with this qualification. The PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) is a popular route for aspiring teachers, and there are several specialisms that law degree holders can consider.
PGCE English
English is a competitive field for PGCE applicants, and typically, providers look for applicants with at least 50% of their degree in the subject they intend to teach. However, exceptions can be made, especially if you have an A-level in English Literature and can demonstrate a passion for the subject. Law graduates have been accepted onto PGCE English courses and gone on to teach the subject.
PGCE History
History is another potential specialism for law degree holders, particularly if your law degree involved studying the history of law and legal systems. However, history PGCEs are highly competitive and oversubscribed, and you may face challenges without a history degree or A-level.
PGCE Maths/Computer Science
Maths and Computer Science are alternative options for law degree holders. These subjects are often considered shortage subjects, meaning there is a higher demand for teachers, and you may find it easier to gain acceptance onto a PGCE course. Some law graduates have successfully transitioned into teaching these subjects.
PGCE Social Science
A PGCE in Social Science can lead to teaching law-related subjects at the secondary or further education level. This specialism can include subjects like Sociology, Psychology, and Health and Social Care. However, it's important to note that the availability of these subjects may vary across schools and key stage levels.
PGCE Business
A PGCE in Business can be an option for law degree holders interested in teaching business and enterprise. This specialism focuses on pedagogy and often involves working with local employers to enhance students' business education.
It's worth noting that the requirements and acceptance criteria for PGCE courses can vary, and it's always advisable to contact the provider directly to discuss your specific circumstances. Additionally, gaining some experience in a primary or secondary school setting can be beneficial before applying.
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Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) courses
SKE courses are available in several subjects, including English, Maths, Science, French, and Spanish. The Department for Education funds specific SKE courses, and students may be eligible for a bursary of £175 per week of the course. However, eligibility for a funded SKE course depends on certain conditions, such as not having received a degree in the chosen teaching subject within the previous five years.
In the context of having a law degree and wanting to pursue a PGCE, an SKE course could be beneficial for enhancing subject knowledge in the desired teaching area. For example, a law graduate interested in teaching English might consider an SKE in English to supplement their degree. Similarly, a law graduate aiming to teach at the secondary level could explore SKE options in relevant subjects to improve their employment prospects.
It is important to note that the requirement for an SKE course depends on the specific PGCE programme and the training provider's assessment of the applicant's knowledge. While some PGCE courses may require an SKE, others might not. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with the teacher training provider and seek guidance on whether an SKE course is necessary or advantageous for the desired teaching path.
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Primary vs secondary PGCEs
When considering a career in teaching, one of the first decisions you'll need to make is whether you want to teach at a primary or secondary level. This will determine the type of PGCE course you'll need to take. While both PGCE courses will prepare you for teaching in your chosen phase, there are some key differences to note.
Primary PGCE
The primary PGCE course will train you to teach students in their early years of school, typically from ages 5 to 11. As a primary school teacher, you will usually stay with one class for most of the day, allowing you to build strong connections and relationships with your students. This can be advantageous as you can better understand their strengths and adapt your teaching methods accordingly.
Secondary PGCE
On the other hand, the secondary PGCE course will qualify you to teach students in their teenage years, usually from ages 11 to 16 or 18. One benefit of teaching at this level, as noted by a teacher, is that if you have a challenging class, you know your time with them is limited, providing some relief. Teaching at the secondary level also offers a wider range of subject options, including traditional academic subjects like English, Maths, and Science, as well as more specialized areas like Computer Science and Social Sciences.
PGCE Course Requirements
It's important to note that the requirements for PGCE courses may vary depending on the institution and the subject you wish to teach. While some universities require your degree to be at least 50% focused on the subject you intend to teach, others may offer more flexibility, especially for subjects with a shortage of applicants. Additionally, some courses may require you to undertake a Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) course before starting the PGCE. This is designed to ensure you have a strong foundation in the subject you wish to teach.
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PGCE vs Teach First
If you are considering a career in teaching, you may be weighing up the pros and cons of two of the most popular routes into the profession in England: PGCE and Teach First. Both are postgraduate teacher training programmes that lead to qualified teacher status (QTS). However, there are significant differences in the way this is delivered. Here is a detailed comparison of the two routes to help you decide which is best for you.
PGCE
PGCE stands for Postgraduate Certificate in Education. It is a university-based training programme that typically lasts one academic year if completed full-time, although part-time and flexible learning options are also available. During the programme, you will attend classes and gain practical experience through placements in partner schools. The placements are arranged by the university and are typically within a reasonable commuting distance. The workload is manageable, and you will have access to support from the university and partner schools. While a PGCE will cost you around £9,000, you may be eligible for funding through bursaries, loans, and university discounts.
Teach First
Teach First is a charity-run training programme with the aim of providing top-quality education to underprivileged children. It is an employment-based, two-year programme that guarantees you a job for two years in a school of their choice. You will earn a salary from day one, starting at over £20,000 in your first year and rising to £30,000 in your second year. However, the expenses of the programme can be higher due to potential relocation and unpaid training during the summer. You will be placed in a school in a disadvantaged area, and while they do accommodate location preferences, you will have no say over which school you are sent to. The workload can be intense, and you will be expected to teach from day one with no prior experience.
Both PGCE and Teach First offer viable routes into the teaching profession, but they differ in terms of structure, cost, workload, and support. PGCE offers better training and a more gradual transition into full-time teaching, while Teach First provides financial stability and the opportunity to make an impact in underprivileged schools. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal circumstances, preferences, and career goals.
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Employment prospects
A PGCE is a well-recognised and valued qualification and is designed to prepare students for life as a primary or secondary school teacher. It is one of the most popular academic teaching qualifications and usually includes Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). While a PGCE does not guarantee employment, graduates traditionally find their first teaching job quickly. The placements completed as part of your course and any additional school experience will stand you in good stead. If your school placements go well and the school has a vacancy when you graduate, you may be offered a job. Pupil numbers are rising, increasing the demand for teachers.
If you have completed a PGCE in a shortage subject, such as physics, maths, chemistry, computing, languages, biology, geography, or design and technology, your knowledge and skills will be particularly sought after. It is worth noting that there is a difference between the PGCE and Teach First schemes. While you can achieve QTS with both, the Teach First route may not allow you to teach abroad in the future.
If your undergraduate degree does not closely relate to the subject you intend to teach, you may be offered a Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) course as part of your application. This is taken before the PGCE, so you would be studying for a little longer. Most courses want you to do an SKE before starting.
If you have a law degree, you may be able to teach English as a second language, as law degrees are generally well-respected and display proficiency in the English language. However, it is important to note that your employment prospects for secondary English without a degree in the subject are slim, and the same is true for history. You may also be able to teach maths or computer science, as some law graduates have successfully made this transition.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can do a PGCE with a law degree. However, it depends on the subject you want to teach and the level of competition for that subject.
You can teach a variety of subjects with a law degree, including English, History, Maths, and Computer Science. Your options may depend on whether you have relevant A-Levels or other qualifications.
Yes, you need a bachelor's degree in any subject to teach at the primary and secondary levels. If you don't have a degree, you can pursue undergraduate teacher training to obtain a bachelor's degree and qualified teacher status (QTS).
PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) is a teaching qualification that can enhance your career prospects. QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) is required to teach in most primary and secondary schools in England. You can obtain QTS through undergraduate or postgraduate teacher training.
A law degree is generally well-respected and can make your application more competitive, especially for subjects with a shortage of applicants. Additionally, the written and oral communication skills gained during your law degree can be advantageous for teaching.
