Teaching Biology in the UK

Next year I will graduate from a British university with a BSc degree in nutrition, and would like to teach. Will this degree allow me entry into a PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) program for biology teaching? How long does the program last?

While nutrition and biology are related subjects, you might need to supplement your nutrition degree with additional biology-specific courses. Since the PGCE course typically focuses on developing teaching skills, and not on the teaching subject, you should ensure your knowledge of biology is complete before you attend.

First, ask a professor in your university's nutrition department (if possible, the head of the department) if additional courses may be required. If the university you're attending has a department of education, you could inquire to them. The UK NARIC (National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom) can also provide advice in this area. Last, the TDA (Training and Development Agency for Schools) can be an invaluable source for teacher training information in the UK. Among other things, they provide information about pre-training courses intended to enhance your subject knowledge (which might qualify you for entry to a PGCE program and/or future teaching employment).

If you attend classes full-time, you can usually complete a PGCE program in one year. Courses are also available part-time, and some programs may allow you to study online.

Good luck!