Why did you choose to undertake this course? What did you want to achieve?
I chose the iPGCE with Tes Institute because it offered the flexibility to complete a recognised international teaching qualification while working full-time. My goal was to enhance my teaching practice and gain a respected credential that would open long-term career opportunities in schools worldwide.
How has this course supported you to achieve your goals?
The iPGCE has really helped me grow as a teacher in ways I didn’t expect. Before the course, I often just went with what felt right, but now I have a much clearer understanding of why certain teaching strategies work. My lessons are more thoughtful, I’m better at spotting what individual students need, and I feel calmer and more confident when things don’t go to plan. It’s also brought me closer to my bigger goal of building a career in international education.
What did you enjoy most about the course?
What I’ve enjoyed most about the iPGCE is the immediate relevance of the course content to my daily teaching practice. I was able to apply the modules directly in the classroom. The course gave me the opportunity to try out new strategies, reflect on what works, and see improvements in student engagement and learning often within the same week. I’ve been especially grateful for the incredible support from the lecturers and tutors. They are consistently approachable, knowledgeable, and quick to provide detailed, constructive feedback. Their encouragement and expertise have not only boosted my confidence but also made the entire learning journey feel collaborative and deeply rewarding.
How did you find the application process?
Honestly, I was a bit nervous at first, but the application process turned out to be much smoother than I expected. The instructions were clear, the team responded quickly to my questions, and nobody made me feel silly for asking basic things. It felt supportive from the very first step, which really helped me start the course with confidence.
What support did you receive during the course and how did this help you to progress?
Throughout the course, I’ve had regular check-ins with my tutor and easy access to lecturers. Whether I was stuck on an assignment or just feeling overwhelmed, someone was always there to guide me without judgement. That ongoing support has kept me motivated, helped me stay on track, and made me a much more reflective and resilient teacher than I was before.
What would you tell another person who is thinking of applying for this course?
I’d say go for it – but go in with your eyes open. The iPGCE is genuinely rewarding because it connects everything you learn directly to your classroom, so you’re not just writing essays for the sake of it. You’ll grow faster as a teacher than you thought possible.
But I’d also say: be ready to juggle. It’s flexible, but it still takes real time and energy, especially if you’re working full-time. My advice? Don’t wait for the ‘perfect’ moment – just set small, regular habits and lean on the tutors when you’re stuck. They actually want to help.
If you’re serious about becoming a more confident, thoughtful teacher and opening doors internationally, this course is a brilliant step.
