PGCE numbers fall

The number of graduates embarking on a postgraduate certificate in education (PGCE) course after leaving university has fallen, new figures indicate.

Information from Education Data Surveys has revealed that the number of graduates starting postgraduate teacher-training courses has dipped by 9% compared to the same time last year.

This could lead to a potential teacher shortage in the near future, with core subjects - such as maths, physics and English - suffering large falls in interest.

Entrants to the PGCE course should be educated to degree level in their chosen subject, with at least a grade C in GCSE maths and English language.

Professor John Howson remarked that earning money may be a top priority for degree holders.

'It may be that graduates now prefer employment-based courses or initiatives such as Teach First, where they can be paid a salary whilst training rather than experiencing yet another year as a student,' he suggested.

Shadow Schools Minister Nick Gibb described the problem as a possible 'tragedy' for schoolchildren who miss out on learning good skills in maths, English and science.