PGCE Two-year Secondary (Mathematics, Chemistry or Physics)
ObjectivesMany graduates considering teaching as a career have degrees in Science or Maths related subjects such as Archaeology, Building Science, Ecology, Environmental Science, Psychology, Sports Science, or Accounting and Finance. With these graduates in mind, our new two year Secondary PGCE will provide enough Maths, Chemistry or Physics subject knowledge in the first year to allow progression to the appropriate traditional PGCE professional year. Emphasis in the second year is then on how to present your new subject knowledge to school pupils in an interesting and engaging way, as well as developing an understanding of other educational issues.
Entry requirementsEntry requirements You will need a good UK honours degree (or equivalent) containing some elements of the subject you wish to teach. We also require Mathematics and English at GCSE grade C or above, or equivalent.
Academic titlePGCE Two-year Secondary (Mathematics, Chemistry or Physics)
Course descriptionPGCE Two-year Secondary (Mathematics, Chemistry or Physics)
Course content
Year One
* Fundamentals of either Mathematics, Chemistry or Physics
* A short time will be spent in schools during the year
It is expected that successful completion of the first subject knowledge year will lead to the commencement of the second professional year working alongside PGCE students.
Year Two
* Subject application studies
* Education professional studies
* Teaching placements in at least two different schools
A variety of teaching strategies will be used, with the emphasis on the development of subject knowledge, practical investigative work and student group work, all with a problem-solving approach. Progress on each module will mostly be assessed through written coursework and tests.
Assessment
Progress on each module will be assessed, mostly, through written course work. If appropriate, an examination may be set.
Separate, formal assessment also takes place in practical teaching in the second year.
Numeracy, Literacy and ICT tests
Before you can be awarded Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), you will need to pass tests in numeracy, literacy and ICT. These can be taken at any time during the second year of your course at an appropriate test centre.
Resources and facilities
Facilities include a range of well-equipped learning environments on the Clifton campus. The Ada Byron King Building has state of the art teaching rooms and ample work stations. The Lionel Robbins building has several teaching and seminar rooms.
Accreditation
Successful completion of the course and the required Numeracy, Literacy and ICT tests will lead to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
PGCE Award
The award of PGCE is offered at two levels:
* Professional Graduate Certificate in Education
* Postgraduate Certificate in Education, where masters level credits can be gained
Both of these are recognised teaching qualifications but the postgraduate award will allow fast track entry onto Masters courses. You do not need to decide which level you will work at until the second term of the second year of the course.