Train to teach with us!


Shires Teaching Alliance is a Regional Hub, accredited by the University of Worcester. Our alliance comprises of local outstanding or good schools, offering the opportunity to train to teach through a one year post graduate programme.

By choosing to train with us for your teacher training, you are opting to spend a significant time in class, putting to practice the ‘theory’ of learning and applying the knowledge gained on a daily basis. You’ll become part of the team, treated as a professional and supported throughout.

You will experience teaching in at least two schools within the alliance, mentored all the way. Your timetable will build as you start to develop your teacher toolkit. Once you successfully complete your teacher training programme, you will achieve QTS (qualified teacher status) and a PGCE (Post Graduate Certificate in Education).

University of Worcester has co-designed the curriculum with Shires Alliance and other school partners. We will deliver aspects of your training in regional centres in addition to training at the University of Worcester (St John’s campus).

Shires Alliance is accountable for the your course leading to QTS, developing the programme
content, and making the recommendation for QTS at the end of the training. University of Worcester will make the academic award.

Key features of the programme:

  • Exceptional levels of support from university and school mentors
  • 120 days teaching in schools plus additional days which allow for opportunities to prepare and rehearse key teaching skills
  • Placements in at least two different schools, giving you a breadth of experience and the chance to specialise while you develop the skills of self-reflection and self-confidence
  • You will be trained to teach pupils 11-16 with post 16 enhancement apart from Business/Economics and Psychology who will train to teach the 14-19 age group.
  • The course lasts for 10 months and you may be eligible for an excellent tax free training bursary and scholarships
  • Opportunities to develop additional specialisms in areas such as special educational needs, teenage mental health, education in climate emergency, technology-enhanced learning, and leadership – I have added more detail below.
  • Extra-curricular opportunities, such as conferences, additional courses, off site visits and special projects, to boost your employability.
  • 60 credits at Masters’ Level, the Secondary PGCE can open doors to further study and employment opportunities

For more information: https://www.worcester.ac.uk/courses/pgce-secondary

Accredited by: