In light of recent reports in the local media concerning the certification of the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), the University would like to provide clarification and address certain misconceptions and inaccuracies surrounding this matter.
For decades, graduates holding a first degree were offered the opportunity to undertake a one-year course designed to equip them with the necessary pedagogical skills to teach a specific subject. All students who successfully completed this course were eligible to obtain a teacher’s warrant which remains valid to this day.
It is important to note that students enrolled in the PGCE course were registered for study-units offered at first-degree level. The qualification carried the title of Postgraduate Certificate in Education to indicate that it was only offered to those who already held a first degree. For a period between 2010 and 2013, the term “second cycle” was erroneously introduced in the Diploma Supplement. However, this same document clearly indicated that the study-units in this course were delivered at first-cycle level. For this reason, this award cannot be classified as a Level 7 qualification. In his decision, the Commissioner for Education confirmed this position.
To support holders of the PGCE who wish to further their studies, the University will be introducing a top-up programme. This initiative will provide PGCE graduates with the opportunity to upgrade their qualification to a Level 7 award. The top-up programme is planned to commence once it has been approved by the University Senate.
The University regrets the documentation error and has commissioned its independent Audit and Risk Committee to investigate the cause of the error and advise suitable risk reduction to improve its quality assurance processes.
The University remains committed to upholding the highest academic standards and safeguarding the value of its qualifications. Any suggestion that sows doubt on the integrity of the University’s awards or diminishes the relevance of the PGCE is deplorable, as it creates a misleading perception regarding the competence and professional standing of PGCE graduates. The University reaffirms that all PGCE graduates have received rigorous training and are fully qualified to teach within their respective subject areas.
