If you have a Primary PGCE and are wondering whether you can teach in a secondary school, the short answer is yes—but it depends on the role, the school, and your subject knowledge.

Many aspiring teachers assume that a Primary PGCE limits them to teaching children aged 5–11 forever. In reality, there are several routes into secondary education, and many schools are open to recruiting talented teachers with transferable skills.

In this guide, we’ll explain exactly whether you can teach secondary with a Primary PGCE, what the legal requirements are, and how you can make the transition.

Can You Teach Secondary With a Primary PGCE?

Yes.

A Primary PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) gives you Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) (assuming your course included QTS). Once you have QTS in England, you are legally qualified to teach pupils of any age in maintained schools.

There is no law stating that someone with a Primary PGCE cannot teach in a secondary school.

However, schools are responsible for employing teachers they believe have the right knowledge and experience for the role.

Does QTS Restrict You to Primary Schools?

No.

Qualified Teacher Status is not age-specific.

While your teacher training focused on primary education, your QTS applies across all age groups.

Schools will usually consider:

• Your degree subject
• Previous work experience
• Subject knowledge
• Confidence teaching older pupils
• Additional qualifications

For example:

• A teacher with a Primary PGCE and a Mathematics degree could be an excellent candidate for a secondary maths role.
• Someone with an English Literature degree may successfully move into secondary English.
• Science graduates with a Primary PGCE are often recruited into secondary science shortages.

Can Academies Employ Primary PGCE Teachers?

Yes.

Academies have even greater flexibility than maintained schools.

In fact, academies can technically employ teachers without QTS, although many still prefer qualified teachers.

This means having a Primary PGCE plus QTS is already a strong qualification for secondary positions.

Which Secondary Subjects Are Easier to Move Into?

The transition is often easiest if your university degree matches a secondary curriculum subject.

Examples include:

Schools experiencing recruitment shortages are often more flexible when hiring teachers with relevant subject expertise.

What If Your Degree Doesn’t Match a Secondary Subject?

You may still have options.

Many schools value:

• Strong classroom management
• Excellent teaching ability
• Experience supporting pupil progress
• Behaviour management skills
• Communication with parents

You might begin by teaching:

• Lower secondary years (Years 7–8)
• Intervention groups
• SEND support
• Transition classes
• Alternative provision

Some teachers later complete additional subject knowledge enhancement (SKE) courses to strengthen their expertise.

Do You Need Another PGCE?

Usually not.

If you already hold:

• A Primary PGCE
• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

you generally do not need a Secondary PGCE.

Some teachers choose additional professional development or subject training, but another PGCE is rarely required.

Will Schools Hire Someone With a Primary PGCE?

Many do.

Schools increasingly focus on finding excellent teachers rather than simply matching PGCE titles.

Recruitment shortages across England mean schools are often willing to consider applicants who demonstrate:

• Strong teaching skills
• Excellent classroom practice
• Subject confidence
• A willingness to learn

Your application should clearly explain why you’re moving into secondary education and highlight any relevant experience.

How to Move From Primary to Secondary Teaching

If you’re planning the switch, here are some practical steps:

1. Highlight Your Subject Expertise

Make your degree and specialist knowledge stand out on your CV.

2. Gain Experience

Try to:

• Observe secondary lessons
• Volunteer in secondary schools
• Take supply teaching assignments
• Work in intervention programmes

3. Tailor Your Application

Focus on transferable skills such as:

• Behaviour management
• Differentiation
• Planning engaging lessons
• Assessment
• Safeguarding

4. Prepare for Interviews

Expect questions about:

• Why you want to move into secondary
• Your subject knowledge
• Managing adolescent learners
• Curriculum understanding

Advantages of Moving From Primary to Secondary

Teachers moving from primary often bring valuable strengths:

• Strong pastoral care
• Excellent relationship-building skills
• Creative lesson planning
• High levels of classroom organisation
• Experience supporting mixed-ability learners

Many secondary schools see these as major advantages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you teach secondary with a Primary PGCE?

Yes. If your Primary PGCE awarded QTS, you are legally qualified to teach in secondary schools in England.

Can I teach GCSE with a Primary PGCE?

Yes, provided the school believes you have sufficient subject knowledge and experience.

Do I need another teaching qualification?

Usually not. Most teachers with QTS do not need a second PGCE.

Is it harder to get a secondary teaching job with a Primary PGCE?

It can be more competitive, particularly in specialist subjects, but many schools recruit teachers with Primary PGCEs—especially where there are teacher shortages.

Can I become a secondary maths teacher with a Primary PGCE?

Yes. If you have a maths degree or strong mathematics background, many schools will consider your application.

A Primary PGCE does not prevent you from teaching in secondary schools. Once you have Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), you’re legally able to teach across age groups in England.

Success largely depends on your subject expertise, teaching experience, and the needs of the school. If you’re passionate about working with older students, there are plenty of opportunities to make the transition without completing another PGCE.

Whether you’re interested in English, maths, science, humanities, or another specialist subject, it’s worth exploring vacancies and speaking to education recruitment experts about your options.

Q: Can you teach secondary with a Primary PGCE?
A: Yes. If your Primary PGCE includes Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), you can legally teach in secondary schools in England. Schools will assess your subject knowledge, experience, and suitability for the role rather than your PGCE specialism alone.