Subject Knowledge Enhancement programmes

SKE courses are available to those who would like to train to teach a variety of Secondary subjects, including; 

• Maths
• English
• All sciences
• RE
• DT
• Spanish
• Primary Maths
• Computing

If you feel you have the potential to be an excellent secondary specialist teacher but that you don't have the right degree to teach a certain subject, our SKE programmes are designed to give you the depth of knowledge you'll need to teach your chosen subject. 

Our flexible programmes last up to 24 weeks and are aimed at those who have already been offered a conditional place on a postgraduate initial teacher training (ITT) course, subject to completion of an SKE programme.  As a minimum, our SKE programmes are the equivalent of eight weeks' full-time study. Some are longer depending on whether you need to top up your subject knowledge or need something more in-depth.

Depending on the individual programme, you can study all in one go as a full-time programme, or spread your studies over a longer period part-time, possibly through blended learning, evening sessions or weekends. There is also the option of parallel delivery when an SKE programme can't be completed before your teacher training is due to start.

Upon successful completion of the course, you will continue on to Initial Teacher Training at UEL or another training provider.

You should first apply to an ITT course and received a Conditional offer. If you qualify for Home fees and meet specific criteria concerning your degree, you may be eligible for a bursary and therefore not have to pay for SKE. 

How do I apply for the SKE bursary?

2021/22 academic year SKE trainees who have accepted a conditional offer on an eligible PGCE programme for September 2022 can apply for an SKE bursary by completing the following  SKE Bursary application form and submitting it via ittfunding@uel.ac.uk. Please refer to Guidance Notes for further information.

2022/23 academic year SKE trainees; updated information and bursary application form will be available here from mid January 2023.