PGCE Fees

 

Trainee Teachers Threatened by Fees

 When top-up fees come into force in September this year, trainee teachers will be amongst the hardest hit. 

You can make a difference by e-mailing your MP.  It won't take long.  All the information you need is here in ULU’s guide! 

 What's the Issue?

There are currently no fees at all for trainee teachers studying for a PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education).  However, from September the fee will jump from nothing to £3,000 - an even bigger leap than for most courses. 

 What’s the Campaign?

 A motion in the House of Commons is calling for PGCE students to be exempt from fees.  This is an Early Day Motion (EDM): parliamentary language for a motion that MPs can sign to show the level of support.  If lots of MPs sign it, the Government may reconsider.  You can read the EDM here.

 How Can I Contact my MP?

 Click here and type in your postcode.  Your MP’s name and e-mail address will then appear.  Click here to see if your MP has already signed the EDM.  If he/she has not, you may be able to influence him/her with a brief e-mail.

 What Should I Say?

 The guidelines below may help.  You can also click here to read an example.

•  State you are asking him/her to sign EDM 1229.

• Explain that PGCE students are currently exempt from all fees but will be required to pay £3,000 from September.

• Briefly state why you disagree with PGCE fees.  The main arguments are:

Æ     Many people study for a PGCE immediately after completing a degree.  The fees will therefore add to already existing debt.

Æ     Society as a whole benefits from the work of teachers.  It is therefore reasonable for the state to fund their training.

Æ     There is a shortage of teachers in several subjects.  The fees are likely to deter many people from applying, particularly those from poorer backgrounds.

Anything Else?

• Keep it brief!

• Be polite!

• Make it clear that you live in the MP’s constituency.

• If you are studying for a PGCE, or thinking of doing so, then say so.  This will add force to your position.

What About ULU?  

Please tell ULU when you have sent the e-mail, and forward to us any reply you receive.  Send them to [email protected].  This allows us to monitor the effectiveness of the campaign and to identify supportive MPs for the future. 

Any Questions?

If you have any questions, feel free to e-mail ULU or to call us on 020 7664 2056.

Thank You!

Many thanks from ULU for taking the time to e-mail your MP.  Never underestimate the power of small actions!