This report presents the findings of a pilot research investigation into perceptions of the provision of Masters level PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) in England and discusses the questions raised by the research. The research was undertaken by the University of Cumbria with nine other participating Higher Education Institutions and was supported by the Universities Council for the Education of Teachers (UCET). The research was linked to the Initial Teacher Education section of the Education Subject Centre of the Higher Education Academy (ESCalate) based at the University of Cumbria. The decision to offer Masters level credits within the PGCE marks a significant step for the teaching profession and the findings of the research are relevant to the following groups: teacher educators involved in presenting Masters level PGCE courses to student teachers; student teachers embarking on Masters level PGCE courses; teachers and headteachers in schools; government policy makers; and all agencies concerned with teacher training.
