If you’re planning to enrol in a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) program, you’re about to take a significant step toward becoming a qualified teacher. The PGCE is an intensive course, combining academic study with practical teaching experience. To help you prepare, it’s wise to take some relevant online courses beforehand. These can strengthen your subject knowledge, introduce you to key teaching strategies, and boost your confidence in the classroom.
Top Online Courses to Take Before Your PGCE Program
Here’s a guide to the top online courses to take before starting your PGCE.
1. Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) Courses
If your degree is not closely related to the subject you plan to teach, or if your subject knowledge needs refreshing, Subject Knowledge Enhancement courses are a smart choice. These are particularly helpful for aspiring teachers in secondary education.
Best platforms:
- FutureLearn (UK Department for Education-funded SKE courses)
- TES Institute
- OpenLearn (Open University)
Subjects available: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computing, English, Modern Languages
Why it’s useful:
Many PGCE providers recommend or require SKE courses to ensure you’re ready to teach your chosen subject confidently and accurately.
2. Child Development and Psychology
Understanding how children learn is essential for effective teaching. A course in child development can offer insights into cognitive, emotional, and social development stages.
Best platforms:
- Coursera (e.g., “Introduction to Psychology” by Yale University)
- FutureLearn (e.g., “Understanding Child Development”)
- edX (e.g., “The Science of Early Childhood Development”)
Why it’s useful:
It helps you tailor your teaching strategies to suit different age groups and learning abilities.
3. Classroom and Behaviour Management
Managing a classroom effectively is one of the most challenging aspects of teaching, especially for beginners. Taking a course on this topic can equip you with practical techniques to maintain a positive learning environment.
Best platforms:
- FutureLearn (“Managing Behaviour for Learning” by the National STEM Learning Centre)
- Alison (Free “Classroom Management” course)
Why it’s useful:
Strong behaviour management skills help reduce disruptions and promote a productive classroom culture.
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4. Introduction to Teaching and Pedagogy
A general course on pedagogy introduces you to different teaching styles, lesson planning, and assessment techniques. These are foundational concepts you’ll explore more deeply during your PGCE.
Best platforms:
- OpenLearn (“Learning to Teach: Becoming a Reflective Practitioner”)
- FutureLearn (“Preparing for Teaching”)
- Udemy (“The Complete Teacher Training Course”)
Why it’s useful:
Gives you a head start on key teaching concepts and shows your PGCE tutors that you’re proactive and committed.
5. Inclusive Education and Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Understanding how to support learners with diverse needs is crucial for all teachers. A course in inclusive education or SEN will teach you about differentiation, Individual Education Plans (IEPs), and accessibility.
Best platforms:
- FutureLearn (“Supporting Learners with Difficulties in Reading and Writing”)
- Coursera (“Supporting Children with Difficulties in Reading and Writing”)
- OpenLearn (“Exploring Inclusive Pedagogy”)
Why it’s useful:
Prepares you to work confidently in mixed-ability classrooms and support students with additional needs.
6. Safeguarding and Child Protection
Every teacher must understand their responsibility to keep children safe. Many PGCE programs include this training, but doing a course beforehand demonstrates awareness and initiative.
Best platforms:
- Virtual College (CPD-certified courses)
- EduCare (online safeguarding training)
- NSPCC Learning
Why it’s useful:
Familiarises you with UK safeguarding policies, reporting procedures, and child welfare guidelines.
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Final Thoughts
While a PGCE will teach you everything you need to become a qualified teacher, arriving prepared can significantly reduce the learning curve. These online courses, many of which are free or low-cost, help build foundational knowledge and skills that will serve you throughout your teacher training and into your career.
Start early, choose courses relevant to your future teaching subject and age group, and you’ll begin your PGCE journey with greater confidence and clarity.
