Postgraduate Certificate - Primary - Provider Led, School-based with Qualified Teacher Status

The School-based route is ideal for individuals who wish to spend most of their time learning to teach in schools. Participants benefit from university-led training sessions with dedicated primary specialist tutors. Upon successful completion, they receive a recommendation for the award of Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) in a course ranked as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted—the highest possible accolade.

This recently revalidated program ensures that its content is current and meets Ofsted’s rigorous standards. Students can select a route that aligns with their career goals, choosing between Early Years (3-7) or Primary (5-11).

Derby’s strong network of provider schools offers varied, challenging, and effective practical experience. The program is further supported by a team of dedicated, friendly tutors, many of whom are internationally recognized for their high-quality teaching and research.

Upon completion of the course, graduates also receive 60 credits toward a master’s degree, boosting their career prospects in education.

School-based courses at Derby consistently feature high levels of employment and student satisfaction. Participants are recruited as trainees and are based primarily in one of the university's Delivery Partner schools, where they become valuable members of the school team from the start.

With intensive support in the classroom and guidance from university experts, trainees are thoroughly prepared for the practical demands of primary teaching. The course covers teaching core subjects as well as broader National Curriculum topics.

As part of the program, students complete three assessed teaching placements to broaden their practical experience. Throughout these placements, they are supported by expert colleagues, including trained school mentors, subject specialists, and link tutors.

Students also spend time at the university, where they further develop their understanding of what it takes to become an exceptional teacher.

With over 150 years of experience in teacher training, Derby has a strong reputation for nurturing successful, confident, and forward-thinking primary teachers. The university was rated ‘Outstanding’ in the recent Ofsted 2023/24 inspection. Ofsted praised the leadership for inspiring students and described the curriculum as ‘highly ambitious’ and ‘skilfully designed’ to ensure that students develop the necessary knowledge and expertise to achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

As a major provider of Initial Teacher Education in the East Midlands, Derby maintains longstanding partnerships with over 400 schools across the region and beyond, including rural, multicultural, and inner-city schools. The university collaborates with a network of Delivery Partners, which work in clusters to support students during placements. Ofsted described the work with Delivery Partners as ‘impressive,’ highlighting their significant role in the program.

In a time of rapid policy shifts that are transforming the educational landscape, Derby’s intellectually stimulating course ensures students stay up to date with the latest developments, including the Core Content Framework. The program is delivered by a highly qualified team of tutors, many of whom are published authors and influential researchers shaping the future of the teaching profession.