Big Changes to PGCE Bursaries for Trainee Teachers...

were announced by the Government last week.

For September 2011, TDA (Training and Development Agency) bursaries will only be available for those studying for PGCE/PGDE in shortage Secondary subjects:-

• Physics, Chemistry, Engineering and Mathematics will attract a bursary of £9,000
  
• Biology, Combined/General Science and Foreign Languages will attract a bursary of £6,000

This effectively withdraws the bursary for Primary PGCE courses, although the number of course places will rise slightly to reflect the increasing number of primary pupils.

There will also be a big increase in places on the "Teach First" programme, whereby graduates can gain teaching experience without first gaining a qualification.