What’s the Difference between PGCE and PGCEi?

Are you considering a career in teaching but feeling uncertain about which path to take? If you’ve been researching postgraduate teaching qualifications, you may have come across two similar acronyms: PGCE and PGCEi. While both are excellent options for aspiring educators, they serve different purposes and cater to different needs.

In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between these two qualifications, focusing on the unique benefits of the PGCEi, to help you make an informed decision about your future in teaching.

What Is a PGCE?

The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is a highly respected and well-established qualification in the UK. It’s designed for those who want to become qualified teachers in the UK and is typically taken after completing an undergraduate degree.

Key Features of a PGCE:

• Location: Primarily UK-based.
• Eligibility: Suitable for those who want to teach in primary, secondary, or further education within the UK.
• Structure: The course usually lasts one year full-time or two years part-time.
• Practical Component: A core feature of the PGCE is its extensive school placements, allowing trainees to gain hands-on experience in real classroom settings.
• QTS (Qualified Teacher Status): The PGCE often includes QTS, which is essential for teaching in most UK state schools.

If your aim is to teach in the UK, the PGCE is a tried-and-tested route, providing rigorous training and practical teaching experience to ensure you’re classroom-ready.

What Is a PGCEi?

The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (International), or PGCEi, is an internationally-focused version of the PGCE. It is ideal for those who wish to teach outside of the UK or in international schools around the world.

Key Features of a PGCEi:

• Location: Designed for those who want to teach internationally or who are already teaching abroad.
• Eligibility: Suitable for teachers who are looking to improve their teaching practices or those wishing to start a teaching career outside the UK.
• Structure: The PGCEi can often be completed online or via distance learning, making it highly flexible and accessible to teachers across the globe.
• Practical Component: While it focuses on pedagogical theory, the PGCEi does not usually include formal teaching placements, meaning the responsibility for gaining teaching experience lies with the trainee or their current employer.
• QTS: The PGCEi does not include Qualified Teacher Status, so it won’t qualify you to teach in UK state schools. However, it is widely recognised by many international schools and educational institutions worldwide.

What Are the Key Differences Between PGCE and PGCEi?

The main differences between the PGCE and PGCEi come down to location, teaching experience, and career goals.

The Benefits of PGCEi

The PGCEi has grown in popularity in recent years, particularly among those who want to teach in international schools, are already working abroad, or are looking for a flexible qualification they can pursue while balancing other commitments. Here’s why the PGCEi might be the right choice for you:

1. Flexibility for Working Professionals

One of the biggest advantages of the PGCEi is its flexibility. Unlike the PGCE, which requires school placements and physical attendance, the PGCEi is typically offered as an online course, meaning you can study from anywhere in the world. This makes it perfect for:

• Teachers already working in international schools who want to formalise their qualifications.
• Individuals looking for a career change who need a more flexible study option.

2. International Recognition

Although the PGCEi doesn’t include QTS, it is still widely recognised by international schools across the globe. Many schools, particularly those offering British or international curricula, view the PGCEi as a highly respected qualification. This can open up teaching opportunities in countries where formal teacher training is valued but QTS is not a strict requirement.

3. Pedagogical Focus

The PGCEi is focused on pedagogical theory and practice, giving you a solid foundation in the principles of teaching and learning. You’ll gain an understanding of educational theories, classroom management strategies, and how to create an inclusive learning environment for students from diverse backgrounds. This theoretical knowledge is invaluable for those teaching in international or multicultural settings.

4. Cost-Effective Option

Compared to the traditional PGCE, the PGCEi can often be a more affordable option. Since it’s primarily delivered online and doesn’t include the UK-based teaching placements, many universities are able to offer the course at a lower cost. This can be an attractive choice for those looking to minimise expenses while still gaining a respected teaching qualification.

5. Networking and Community

Even though the PGCEi is an online course, it’s designed to foster a sense of community among international teachers. You’ll engage with educators from around the world, share experiences, and build a global network of colleagues. This international perspective is hugely beneficial, particularly if you plan to teach in culturally diverse environments.

Who Should Consider a PGCEi?

The PGCEi is ideal for anyone who:

• Wants to teach abroad: If your goal is to teach in an international school or in countries outside of the UK, the PGCEi is a flexible and highly relevant qualification.
• Is already teaching overseas: If you’re currently working as a teacher but don’t have a formal teaching qualification, the PGCEi can help you advance your career without needing to return to the UK for in-person study.
• Seeks flexibility: If you need a qualification that allows you to study while working, caring for family, or travelling, the PGCEi’s online format provides the convenience you need.

Both the PGCE and PGCEi are valuable qualifications, but which one is right for you depends on your career goals and circumstances.

The PGCE is ideal if you’re aiming to teach in the UK and want a qualification that includes QTS and school placements.

The PGCEi, on the other hand, offers the flexibility of online learning and is an excellent choice for those wishing to teach internationally or who need a more adaptable study option.

Whichever path you choose, both qualifications will equip you with essential teaching skills and open up a world of opportunities in the field of education.

If you’re passionate about teaching and ready to inspire the next generation, one of these qualifications could be the key to your future success.

Find Out More

Portobello Institute delivers a PGCEi qualification that is awarded by Liverpool John Moore's University (LJMU). This means you can gain an internationally recognised UK qualification through an Irish education provider, delivered entirely online and around your current work schedule. 

If you are interested in the PGCEi you can speak with our admissions advisor, Hannah Meade, by booking a consultation call here, email hannah.meade@portobelloinstitute.com or call 01 892 0029.