Postgraduate Certificate in Education (Latin with Classics) PGCE

Key Information

Study mode: Full time Duration: 37 weeks full-time, September to end of June Credit value (UK/ECTS equivalent): UK 120 / ECTS 60 credits Application status: Open Start date: September 2025

Course Description

The PGCE provides a thoughtful and critical introduction to teaching Latin with Classics, including modelling classroom practice and drawing on theoretical research. We work in close partnership with schools in designing, delivering and assessing our programme in order to develop excellent, reflective classroom practitioners.

Key Benefits

• King’s is one of only two institutions to offer an 11 to 18 PGCE Latin with Classics and the course has a national reputation for its quality.
• The course has excellent links with specialists from a range of settings such museum education, drama, psychology and course book authors.
• PGCE courses at King’s are rated Outstanding by Ofsted. One reason is the strong research base which informs the course. In the last research assessment exercise, the department was rated as the leading education institution for research in London (REF, 2021).
• A working partnership with a broad range of schools in London and beyond, providing unique opportunities to learn how to teach a diverse mix of students.
• Across all PGCE subjects, 92% of our PGCE trainees who applied for teaching posts after graduation were employed as Early Career Teachers (ECTs) at schools in the UK and abroad (JISC Graduate Outcomes Survey 2024).
• Located in the heart of London with opportunities for trips to sites such as the Museum of London.
• Two assessed pieces of coursework give you 60 Master’s-level credits – a third of an MA – which puts you well on the way to a Master’s degree in your chosen profession.

Course Essentials

Base Campus

Waterloo Campus

Regulating Bodies

King's is regulated by the Office for Students

Entry Requirements

UK Applicants

• Standard requirements: A minimum 2:2 undergraduate Bachelor’s (honours) degree
• Programme-Specific Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree with at least 2:2 honours (or overseas equivalent) in a Classics-based subject, for example Classics, Classical Civilisation or Ancient History.
  • Your level of Latin will need to be at least AS level grade A (or the equivalent) and this will be assessed at interview through a translation exercise.
  • Knowledge and understanding of the subject you intend to teach.
  • GCSE grade C or above (or an equivalent qualification) in English language and mathematics.

International Applicants

• Equivalent International qualifications: Select a country from the list provided
• English language requirements: English language band B

Selection Process

• All applications should be made through DfE Apply, the Department of Education’s Teacher Training application portal.
• Before you can be offered a place on a PGCE programme, you will need to attend an online or in-person interview, usually within 40 days of your application submission date.
• An Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (criminal conviction check) and Occupational Health check are required for the teacher training programmes.

Teaching Methods

• Seminars
• Self-Study
• One-to-one tutorials
• Academic sessions
• Teaching placement

Assessment

• Written assignment
• Written portfolio
• The 45-credit honours-level module will be assessed by a combination of written (online) portfolio documents and continuous assessment of your teaching practice benchmarked to the DfE's Core Content Framework.
• The 30-credit master’s-level modules will each be assessed by a written assignment heavily based on in-school research that trainees undertake.
• The 15 credit honours-level module will be assessed by an assignment focusing on data collection methods in the school environment.

Structure

Required Modules

• Studying Policy & Professional Practice (30 credits)
• Focused Pedagogical Studies (30 credits)
• Professional Practice in Education (45 credits)
• School Data (15 credits)

Employability

• The majority of trainees go into teaching or other areas of education; many become heads of departments or members of senior management teams; some take up careers in educational administration in the advisory or inspection services.

Tuition Fees

UK

• Full time: £9,535 per year (2025/26)

International

• Full time: £25,500 per year (2025/26)

Additional Costs

• Books, if you choose to buy your own copies.
• Clothing for optional course related events and competitions.
• Course packs, which are a vital part of your learning at King's and normally contain extracts from books and other useful documents that will inform your study.
• Library fees and fines.
• Personal photocopies.
• Printing course handouts.
• Society membership fees.
• Stationery.
• Travel costs for travel around London and between campuses.
• Travel expenses in getting to and from placement schools.
• Travel costs for visit to a London school and occasional museum visits.
• Graduation costs.

The program leverages leading education research conducted at King's, offering a unique blend of academic rigor and practical application. The program actively collaborates with schools in designing, delivering, and assessing the curriculum, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to excel as reflective classroom practitioners.

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Key Objectives

• expert knowledge and pedagogical skills
• reflective and critical thinking
• strong communication and collaboration skills
• high standards required for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

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Outline

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Program Content and Structure

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The PGCE Latin with Classics is a full-time, intensive program spanning ten months, from September to June.

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Students complete the program by accumulating 120 credits across four required modules and practical teaching experiences in secondary schools within London and Greater London.

The program's curriculum includes:

• Education, pedagogy, and professional studies sessions: These sessions, held in university and school settings, equip students with a deep understanding of general educational issues, professional development strategies, and subject-specific pedagogy.
• Curriculum workshops: Participants actively engage in developing and refining curriculum materials alongside experienced educators, gaining valuable insights into curriculum design and implementation.

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Individual Modules

The four required modules of the program are:

• Professional Practice in Education (45 credits): This core module focuses on the practical aspects of teaching, with students actively engaging in classroom instruction under the supervision of experienced mentors.
• Studying Policy & Professional Practice (30 credits): This module delves into the complex landscape of educational policy and its implications for classroom practice, empowering students to navigate the realities of the education system.
• Focused Pedagogical Studies (30 credits): This module explores effective teaching methodologies specific to the Latin and Classics discipline, equipping students with the necessary skills and strategies to deliver engaging and meaningful instruction.

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Assessment

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Assessment Methods and Criteria

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Assessment for the program utilizes a multifaceted approach:

• Written assignments: Students demonstrate their understanding of key concepts and their ability to apply their knowledge through comprehensive written assignments.
• Written portfolios: For specific modules, students create extensive written portfolios showcasing their teaching practice, reflecting on their experiences, and demonstrating their mastery of pedagogical skills.
• Teaching practice: A crucial element of the program, teaching practice is assessed rigorously against the established Teaching Standards set forth by the Department for Education, ensuring graduates meet the high standards expected of qualified teachers.

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Teaching

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Teaching Methods and Faculty

The PGCE Latin with Classics program leverages a diverse range of teaching methods to create an enriching and engaging learning experience:

• Seminars: Interactive seminar sessions allow students to explore concepts in depth and actively participate in discussions with peers and faculty.
• Lectures: Renowned experts and experienced educators share their knowledge and insights through engaging lectures.
• Self-study: Independent study periods are essential for solidifying learning, completing assignments, and conducting further research.
• Teaching placements: The real-world experience gained through teaching placements is invaluable, allowing students to apply their knowledge, hone their skills, and receive expert feedback from experienced mentors.
The program boasts a highly qualified and dedicated team of faculty members with extensive experience in both the field of classics and in teacher education. This ensures students receive expert instruction, valuable mentorship, and ongoing support throughout their academic journey.

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Unique Program Features

The PGCE Latin with Classics program at King's College London offers several distinct advantages:

• Exceptional reputation: King's is one of only three institutions in the UK offering this specialized program, renowned for its high quality and rigorous academic standards.
• Strong research foundation: The program draws upon the university's leading research in education, ensuring students benefit from innovative and evidence-based teaching practices.
• Extensive network of partnerships: The program boasts collaborations with over 150 schools, providing students with diverse and enriching experiences across a variety of educational settings.
• High graduate employment rate: Graduates of the program enjoy a remarkable 100% employment rate within the UK and abroad, securing positions as Early Career Teachers (ECTs).
• Central London location: Studying in the heart of London provides access to world-renowned museums, historical sites, and cultural experiences, further enhancing the learning experience.
• Master's-level credits: Successful completion of the program grants students 60 Master's-level credits, providing a significant head start towards further postgraduate studies in education or related fields.

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Careers

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Career Path and Opportunities

Graduates of the PGCE Latin with Classics program are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and qualifications to pursue diverse and rewarding careers in education, including:

• Secondary school teacher: As qualified teachers, graduates can secure teaching positions in state schools across the UK, specializing in the instruction of Latin and Classics.
• Head of department: With experience and leadership skills, graduates can progress to leadership roles as heads of department, responsible for overseeing curriculum development, staff management, and departmental operations.
• Senior management roles: Graduates may pursue careers within school leadership teams, contributing to strategic decision-making, policy development, and the overall management of educational institutions.
• Educational administration: Individuals may also choose to apply their expertise in educational administration, working within advisory services, educational organizations, or inspection agencies to support and improve education at various levels.

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Graduate Outcomes

The program boasts a remarkable 100% graduate employment rate, with graduates successfully securing teaching positions within the UK and abroad.

• The PGCE Latin with Classics program offers a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about education and the classics to combine their interests and pursue a fulfilling career in teaching.
• The program's strong emphasis on practical experience, coupled with its rigorous academic foundation, prepares graduates to excel as confident, well-rounded, and effective educators.
• Students benefit from a supportive learning environment, access to world-class resources, and personalized mentorship from experienced professionals, ensuring they receive the necessary guidance and support to achieve their full potential.

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UK:Full time: £9,250 per year (2024/25) International:Full time: £23,820 per year (2024/25)