About Us
University of Winchester
The RSA and the University of Winchester
Since the RSA’s inception in 2017, we’ve cultivated a strong and fruitful partnership with the University of Winchester. Together, we successfully delivered the School Direct ITT program, equipping cohorts of talented teachers with the skills they needed to excel in the classroom. Building upon this success, we’ve collaborated with the University and other Secondary School partnerships to design the innovative Secondary School Led PGCE course.
Our close relationship with the University extends beyond the classroom. The University’s staff share our commitment to nurturing future educators and are known for their warmth, respect, and high ambitions for our trainees. By being based in schools, our trainees gain invaluable practical experience, preparing them for the realities and demands of teaching.
A comprehensive curriculum for exceptional educators
The Secondary School Led PGCE course is designed to equip trainees with the knowledge, skills, and understanding needed to make a lasting impact. Our curriculum goes beyond the core content framework (CCF) of ITT, incorporating relevant, up-to-date research and ensuring an early focus on behaviour management. This ensures that our trainees are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of their students, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).
We also prioritise professional development and wellbeing. Our trainees will learn effective workload management strategies, develop strong professional behaviours, and receive ongoing support from our experienced mentors, both in school and at the University. By the end of the course, they will feel confident in their ability to meet the challenges and rewards of a teaching career.
A collaborative approach to teacher training
The University of Winchester is committed to fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment. The course leaders build strong relationships with schools, staff, and trainees. Additionally, the University’s Subject Link Tutors provide expert guidance and ensure a seamless integration between university-based and school-based training.
Join us in shaping the future of education
At the RSA, we believe that exceptional teachers make a world of difference. By partnering with the University of Winchester, we offer a program that is rigorous, supportive, and prepares trainees for a rewarding career in education. If you’re passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of young people, we invite you to join us on this exciting journey.
Why choose the University of Winchester?
- The University of Winchester has its roots in teacher training; it started in the 1830s to train teachers who would teach in poor communities. It has grown to incorporate different faculties and today has close to 8,000 students.
- The course is run by the Faculty of Education and the Arts – home to the Institution of Education, and Department of Education and Childhood Studies, among others.
- Both undergraduate and postgraduate degree-level qualifications are tailored to meet the profession’s needs and are consistently rated highly in internal and national student satisfaction surveys.
- The staff that will teach you have practical know-how and academic expertise, with years of experience. They are inspirational, creative and impactful.
- The University is involved with research for education, helping shape the future of pedagogy.
- And finally, the University of Winchester is an Ofsted rated ‘Outstanding ’ University for its Initial Teacher Training (ITT) provision.
What qualifications will you gain?
The PGCE Secondary School Led program is a postgraduate teacher training course that will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to become a qualified teacher. Upon successful completion, you’ll earn a Postgraduate Certificate in Education and be recommended for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
The PGCE counts as 60 Master’s credits, equating to 1/3 of a Masters.
Your QTS Status allows you teach any age range; however, this programme prepares you to teach the 11-16 age range.
All students completing the school-led course will also gain ECT (Early Career Teacher) status.
You can read more about the course here: University of Winchester | PGCE Secondary School Led 2025
What does the University offer students?
The University of Winchester’s approach to education is shaped by its history and a progressive-thinking ethos. It is dedicated to fostering a supportive and communal student environment. They will support you in your journey towards a successful career and empower you to make positive change.
Offering a friendly and compact campus, the University has first-class, sustainable facilities for learning and student life.
University of Winchester | Campus map
Student life is centred around the King Alfred Quarter. It has been added to and renovated so its enhanced facilities have the latest industry-standard equipment, digital networks and AV technology. King Alfred Quarter is also home to the Student Union. It organises club nights, comedy, quizzes and live music. There is also a cinema with a dedicated programme of films. A variety of clubs, societies and associations are run in the Student Union, offering the chance to get involved in a wide range of activities.
The University of Winchester offers excellent sports facilities for students, staff and the community. It has a sports stadium, an all-weather pitch and a range of gyms and sports halls.
The University is part of a thriving network of performing arts activities involving national and international artists and professional performance companies. Students and staff regularly perform at national events such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the University is involved every year in the Winchester Hat Fair – a famous street theatre festival. There are excellent performance and rehearsal spaces at the University that offer the latest technology for student productions. There are also first-rate choreography and dance studio facilities.
The Link Gallery is an arts space at the University that is open to the general public. There is an exhibition programme throughout the year featuring established and emerging artists of a host of visual arts such as photography, painting and sculpture. There is also a fascinating array of visual arts displayed on campus – all are the creative works of students, staff, alumni and local professional artists.
Quick facts
Accommodation
The Rural Schools Alliance does not provide accommodation for its trainee teachers but advice regarding housing is available from Student Housing Services at The University of Winchester.
Childcare facilities
The partnership schools do not have dedicated childcare facilities on site and neither does the University.
The University recommends using local childcare providers.
Disability access
Schools within the alliance have varying degrees of disability access. Applicants who would like to find out more details about disabled access provision across the alliance can contact the Rural Schools Alliance Administrator. The University of Winchester provides a range of student support services including advice and guidance, and tutorials for those with a specific learning difficulty.
University of Winchester | Student support | Wellbeing | Disability and learning diversity
Public transport
Information about regional bus and train services that provide links to our partner schools can be found by contacting the Rural Schools Alliance Administrator. The University of Winchester is within walking distance of the main railway line from London Waterloo to Southampton, Bournemouth and Weymouth. There are also a wide range of regional bus and train services that are easily accessible and more information can be found at:
University of Winchester | Green campus | Travel and transport
Student Union and study facilities
All school-led trainee teachers with the Rural Schools Alliance become members of The University of Winchester’s Student Union and are, therefore, able to take advantage of the study facilities on the campus.
As a member of the Student Union you have access to the representation and support of the Union, as well as activities, events and facilities, including shops, bars, and laundrettes. You can also apply for a NUS card giving you access to student discounts.
Student support services include money (loans, bursaries and scholarships), wellbeing (mental health, life advice, disability and learning diversity, and health and medical advice), and academic skills.
You’ll have access to the library (including 24/7 during term time) and online resources, PCs, workstations and the University’s Virtual Learning Environment, Canvas.