Q: Who is the iPGCE for?

The iPGCE is designed for individuals who want to develop their teaching expertise and enhance their career opportunities in international education. It is ideal for: Aspiring and Current Teachers Graduates seeking to enter the teaching profession, particularly in international schools across Early Years, Primary, Secondary, and Further Education. Practising teachers who wish to deepen their understanding of pedagogy, gain a UK-accredited qualification, or work towards Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). International Educators Teachers working in International Baccalaureate (IB), Cambridge, or British international schools who want to align with UK teaching standards. Educators in regions such as India, Nigeria, the UAE, or Southeast Asia looking to broaden their global teaching opportunities. Education Professionals Beyond the Classroom Curriculum designers, content developers, graphic designers, UX specialists, and education consultants who want to apply pedagogical principles to their work. Professionals who work with schools such as safeguarding leads and lawyers working in child related law. School Administrators and Policy Makers can benefit from understanding pedagogical frameworks to inform better decision-making and develop effective education policies. Similarly, professionals in education-adjacent roles, such as educational app developers, assessment designers, and publishers, can apply learning theory to create impactful tools and resources. By aligning their work with how students learn and teachers teach, these roles contribute to more meaningful educational experiences and improved outcomes. Understanding how education works from the inside can improve the quality of your projects, strengthen collaboration with teachers, and open new career pathways in edtech, publishing, and consultancy.

Q: Why choose the iPGCE?

Advance Your Career Gain a UK-accredited postgraduate qualification without relocating. Enhance your CV for roles in international schools offering British, International Baccalaureate (IB), or Cambridge curricula. Teach Globally Open doors to British international schools and global education systems. Build a foundation for progressing to QTS through routes such as Masters in Education or Assessment Only QTS (also available internationally). Flexible Online Study 100% online and part-time, designed for working professionals. Live sessions and tutorials are scheduled to suit international time zones. No Need for a B.Ed Perfect for graduates in other disciplines who want to transition into teaching. The iPGCE complements local qualifications and strengthens international credibility.

Q: Is the iPGCE a pathway to QTS?

Yes. The iPGCE provides the academic foundation required for many QTS routes, including Assessment Only QTS and iQTS. It helps you: Meet postgraduate-level pedagogical training requirements and build a reflective teaching portfolio and gather theoretical evidence for QTS applications. Next Steps After iPGCE: Pathway Who It’s For Next Step Assessment Only QTS Experienced teachers (2+ years) Apply directly with a portfolio of evidence (can be built during iPGCE study). iQTS Teachers working outside the UK Enrol in an iQTS programme (iPGCE accepted as prior learning). Master’s in Education Teachers seeking academic progression or leadership roles Use iPGCE Level 7 credits (if accepted) or apply directly to an MA programme.

Q: Do you need QTS to teach internationally?

Not always... For UK State Schools: QTS is a legal requirement. British International Schools: Often preferred but not always required, the iPGCE would be a relevant qualification. This changes with location, for example in the Middle East and Asia where QTS is often a requirement. International Baccalaureate (IB) / Cambridge Schools: QTS is not required; experience and curriculum training are valued and the iPGCE would suport your application. Local Public Schools: Usually require local teaching credentials relevant to the country’s context. An iPGCE can strengthen your profile even where QTS is not mandatory, and it supports progression to QTS if needed.

Q: Is an iPGCE a valuable qualification

Absolutely. The International Postgraduate Certificate in Education (iPGCE) offers significant benefits for aspiring and experienced teachers, as well as education professionals worldwide. Here’s how it can support your career: 1. Professional Development Gain UK-aligned pedagogical training without the need to relocate. Develop skills in reflective practice, lesson planning, assessment, and inclusive education. Build a global teaching mindset that prepares you for diverse classroom contexts. 2. International Career Opportunities Recognised by many international schools, including those offering IB, Cambridge, and British curricula. Strengthen your CV for roles in international education settings. Provides a pathway towards Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) through flexible routes such as iQTS or Assessment Only QTS—often more cost-effective than relocating for a UK-based PGCE. 3. Alternative to Local Qualifications Ideal for graduates who do not hold a B.Ed or equivalent teaching qualification. Offers a faster, flexible route into teaching, particularly in private or international schools. Complements local teaching credentials (such as TRCN in Nigeria or TET in India) and enhances your professional profile. 4. Curriculum Familiarity Many iPGCE programmes include modules on international curricula, such as: International Baccalaureate (IB) Cambridge IGCSE and A Levels British National Curriculum 5. Flexible Learning Delivered online and often part-time, making it ideal for working professionals. Enables you to apply theory directly to your current teaching practice- if you are working or volunteering in an educational setting.

You’ll focus on education through a global lens and the inclusive practice that is essential for today’s global classroom via online modules which are tailored to fit around your life and work commitments.

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Overview

The iPGCE has been designed for aspiring educators who aim to teach in a wide range of international settings. It is a one-year, part-time, asynchronous study course, so you’ll primarily study at your own pace and time.

You’ll learn from experienced educators who combine academic knowledge with real-world teaching insights.

You’ll have regular contact points with course tutors in small groups and your Personal Academic Tutor will get to know you and support your progress through the course. You’ll also benefit from Worcester’s strong support network, including access to academic advisors and career services.

The course has no placement requirement.

Read our frequently asked questions about the iPGCE.

Course content

You will study a total of three modules. Two of these are mandatory. For the third you will have a choice of two options, allowing you to tailor your studies to match your interests and career aspirations.

Each module has the same clear aim of providing learning through a global lens, allowing you to see your own context represented as well as experiencing education beyond your locality.

We regularly review our courses to reflect the latest research and developments in the subject area, as well as feedback from students, employers and the wider sector. As a result, modules may change to ensure the course remains current and relevant.

Optional modules will run if enough students choose to study them. It is not guaranteed that all modules will be offered every year.

Mandatory modules

Values and Identity in Education (30 credits)

Professional Connections in Education (15 credits)

Optional modules

Educational Equity (15 credits)

Researching in Education (15 credits)

Careers

Once you graduate you will have opportunities to teach across international education settings, including tutoring and international schools, or working in other educational organisations.

You will also be well positioned to progress onto the University of Worcester Education MA, or explore how you may be able to come to the UK to complete an Assessment Only Route to QTS and therefore qualify to teach in UK schools. The iPGCE does not include a placement and does not lead to QTS.

Course highlights

Student and lecturer sitting at a table together, looking at a notebook

Flexible learning

Engage in online modules so you can fit your studies around professional and familial commitments.

Teaching and assessment

You will learn via live lectures and pre-recorded resources to ensure you’ll have flexible access to learning. You’ll have regular contact with your tutor throughout the course (both one-to-one and via group tutorials) while having access to online content so that you can work flexibly while you manage other commitments.

The assessments have been designed with multiple means of engagement for an inclusive approach to summative assessment. You will be able to demonstrate your learning through a range of assessment approaches, including scenario-based portfolios, digital media and academic writing.

Formative assessment will be via peer and tutor feedback in regular one-to-one or small group tutorials.

Summative (graded) assessments will be via the methods outlined in the module descriptions above.

Entry requirements

Lower Second Class Honours Degree or an approved equivalent award

International applicants will be required to demonstrate comparable prior subject experience and to have an appropriate level of written and spoken English (normally an IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum score of 6 in written English).

Entry qualifications for international students are guided by the National Academic Recognition Information Centre's (NARIC) advice on international qualifications.

Any questions?

If you have any questions about entry requirements, please call our Admissions Office on 01905 855111 or email admissions@worc.ac.uk.

Fees

Home and EU students

The total course fee for students enrolling on the International PGCE (iPGCE) in the academic year 2026/27 is £4,500 for the total course.

Tuition fees are reviewed annually and may increase each year for both new and continuing students.

For more details, please visit our course fees page.

International students

The total course fee for students enrolling on the International PGCE (iPGCE) in the academic year 2026/27 is £4,500 for the total course.

Tuition fees are reviewed annually and may increase each year for both new and continuing students.

For more details, please visit our course fees page.

How to apply

Apply to study

Please make your application via our online application forms.

If you have any questions, please contact the Admissions office on 01905 855111 or admissions@worc.ac.uk

Online application form links will be available soon.

We are open to applications from anywhere in the world. Please note each country's student cohort is dependent on a minimum number of students and in-country tax implications.

Please contact the course leader (k.howen@worc.ac.uk) if you would to discuss your application.

Contact

If you have any questions, please get in touch. We're here to help you every step of the way.

Kate Howen

International PGCE Course Leader & Senior Lecturer in Primary Education (Music)

k.howen@worc.ac.uk

Admissions Office

admissions@worc.ac.uk 01905 855111

FAQs

Who is the iPGCE for?

Why choose the iPGCE?

Is the iPGCE a pathway to QTS?

Do you need QTS to teach internationally?

Is an iPGCE a valuable qualification