PGCE Secondary Science

Institution Sheffield Hallam University
Method At the institution
Location Sheffield
Type Postgraduate
Course fee By request

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PGCE Secondary Science

Entry requirements Entry requirements Normally GCSE mathematics, science and English language at grade C or above (or equivalent). We will consider applicants who are in the process of obtaining the relevant GCSEs. You must have a full science degree, which closely relates to the subject area of the PGCE. Some voluntary work experience in a school would also be useful. We consider each application on its merits. Interviews are part of the selection process for this course. As you will be working with children, you will be required to complete a declaration of criminal convictions and health check forms. We welcome applications from people seeking a career change, and we actively encourage applications from those groups under-represented in teacher education, in order to ensure that the teaching profession represents the diverse nature of contemporary UK society.
Academic title PGCE Secondary Science
Course description This secondary teacher training course leads to qualified teacher status (QTS).

It equips you to teach national curriculum science at Key Stage 3 and at least one specialist science subject (chemistry, physics or biology) at Key Stage 4 and possibly post-16.

On the course you
• enhance your subject knowledge, understanding and skills
• learn how to teach science
• learn about the wider role of teachers in school
• gain knowledge about schools and the education system
• apply your skills and knowledge on school placements

We help you develop the skills you need to be a successful teacher of pupils of all abilities. By studying with us you build your enthusiasm, confidence, knowledge and ability to teach science.

You also develop self-evaluation skills by completing a career preparation profile. This provides evidence that you meet the QTS standards for personal development.

School placements are central to the course. You complete teaching placements in two 11–16 or 11–18 schools, or in a post-16 college. This allows you to experience the progression from Key Stage 3 to 5.

A University-trained mentor helps you develop as a practising teacher and monitors your progress when on placement.

We have strong partnerships with secondary schools and colleges in the area and many of our students are offered teaching jobs in their placement schools.

Your placements are complemented by University based study that includes teaching sessions, seminars, group study, tutorials and assessment.

During the course you can choose to complete either the PGCE or the professional graduate certificate in education (ProfGCE). Both qualifications achieve QTS but the PGCE also gives you 60 masters level credits, which you can use towards a masters degree.

Associated careers

We have an excellent graduate employment record. Over 90 per cent of our PGCE graduates are teaching or in further study within six months of graduating. Many students gain employment in the local area.

Course content

Modules
• developments in the 11–18 science curriculum • developing professional practice in science • developing critical reflection in science education • general professional studies • teaching placements in schools

We support your work in schools with a programme of preparation and mentoring. You experience various school placements, including two continuous blocks of time on teaching practice. These are in two different schools and usually require some travelling.