Hi, I'm an undergraduate who wants to do a PhD. I've got a place on PGCE in September as I'll have to teach secondary school for a few years first to pay for MA since my degree has gone wrong and I'm only expecting a 2:1 now! Will this harm my chances of getting a PhD? And does anyone know if a secondary teaching qualification might help me get started in university teaching? I'm stressing in case I have to spend my life doing something that isn't my subject!

Nothing wrong with a 2:1, you shouldn't have any problems getting a PhD studentship with that classification. Do you really need to do the PGCE? If your career aim is to become a University lecturer, can you (finances allowing) go straight to an MA or PhD? I'd recommend that you talk to a careers advisor at your university. Good luck.

Thanks for your advice Ann, I will book appointment at careers service!
Yes my aim is to become a university lecturer, but I can't afford to do any more study yet. The PGCE seemed the best option, since I've already worked in secondary as a teaching assistant and to be honest I'd not be much use at earning money another way! Thanks again

I'm just concerned that with your current plan it might be 9 years before you complete your PhD (1 year PGCE, 3 years teaching, 1 year MA, 3-4 years PhD)! However, I'm sure the careers service will advise you of the best and quickest way for you to achieve your goal. All the best! :o)

You'll have no prob. I got a 2:1 and it's not caused any difficulty at all. I agree you should try and do it as soon as possible though. I did a PGCE too and I regretted it!