Accredited by the University of York

Inspiring Teachers. Transforming Lives. Rooted in Faith.

Our school-centred PGCE Primary programme (5-11), accredited by the University of York, offers an outstanding combination of real classroom experience, personalised mentoring, and research-informed training – delivered within the faith-filled, community-focused schools of Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust (NPCAT).

Whether you’re a recent graduate or considering a career change, this programme equips you with the confidence, knowledge and values to thrive as a primary school teacher.

On successfully completing this course you will be recommended for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), which is awarded by the Department for Education (DfE).

Course length: 10 months full-time
Course start date: September 2026 View Semester Dates

Why Choose NPCAT & University of York?

A Trusted School-Based Model

You’ll be immersed in our schools from the very start, learning the craft of teaching through observation, co-teaching, and eventually leading lessons yourself—with support every step of the way. You’ll be placed in schools close to home and matched carefully to your needs.


Gold Standard University Training

The University of York is a Russell Group institution and holds a Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) Gold award. The academic programme is fully aligned with the Core Content Framework (CCF) and taught by experienced university tutors and school-based experts.

Mentoring that Makes a Difference

From the beginning of your placement, you’ll be supported by a dedicated school-based mentor, as well as the wider NPCAT Initial Teacher Training team. Weekly training sessions are practical, interactive, and focused on the real challenges and joys of teaching.

Your PGCE Year: School Placement Structure

Your training year will include experience in at least four schools, giving you a wide and balanced view of the primary education landscape:

Teaching Placement 1

  • You’ll be allocated to a school in Key Stage 1 or Key Stage 2
  • You will spend a substantial amount of time here building relationships and teaching confidence

 Teaching Placement 2

  • You’ll be placed in a contrasting school in the opposite key stage
  • This deepens your understanding of progression across the primary curriculum

 Secondary Placement

  • You will independently arrange a short placement in a mainstream secondary school (England or Wales)
  • This gives insight into the next phase of education and supports transition understanding

Professional Enrichment Placement

A flexible short placement, arranged in negotiation with your university tutor, e.g.:

  • Special schools
  • Schools with high numbers of EAL pupils
  • Early years settings
  • Schools with unique pedagogical approaches

Academic and Professional Development

  • Three Master’s level assignments (4,000 words each)
  • Designed to reflect on and deepen your school-based learning
  • Strong academic support through workshops and tutorials
  • Focused on your real classroom practice, not abstract theory

What Our Trainees Say

“The wraparound support, close relationship with local schools, and the sense of community made all the difference. I knew this was where I wanted to train.” PGCE Primary Trainee

A Lasting Community of Support

Your relationship with Polaris and NPCAT doesn’t end at QTS you’ll continue to receive guidance through your ECT (Early Career Teacher) years and beyond

Entry Requirements

To apply for the PGCE Primary (5–11), you’ll need:

  • A bachelor’s degree (any subject)
  • GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above in:
    • English
    • Maths
    • Science
  • To pass a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check

Funding

  • Student finance available (including tuition & maintenance loans)
  • Bursaries/scholarships available for some subjects (mainly secondary routes)

More information from University of York:

University of York website PGCE page 

How to Apply

Applications open from October through the Department for Education (DfE) Apply service.

Courses fill up quickly—apply early to secure your place.

Please reference our course codes when applying. 

The course code for PGCE Primary is: S888 (NPCAT code)

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

We’d love to help you start your teaching career with faith, purpose, and excellence.

Primary Lead Contact: [email protected]

Forming Lives. Ready to Face the Future. 
Train to Teach with NPCAT and the University of York