Course description
This programme will enable you to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), equipping you with the skills you'll need to be an effective and efficient teacher of you subject at secondary level.
One strand of the programme, based in the university, gives you a grounding in theory and practical issues.
A second strand, approximately two thirds of the programme, involves active participation in school and college placements. The focus is on the professional application of the teaching and learning process in the 11-18 age range (14-19 age range for business education). Your teaching experience will be organised by the School Placement Officer.
All applicants to this course are required to have undergone the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) Disclosure process prior to commencement of study on their chosen programme.
The provision of DES Circular 9/93 concerning the disclosure of criminal convictions of those with access to children apply to all Education programmes.
Course Content
Year 1
The Professional Year
The programme comprises academic modules and work-based learning with the option of doing up to 60 credits at Masters level as an integrated part of the programme.
This programme is in the process of re-approval but the format is likely to be:
September - January
* 1 academic module covering generic teaching/learning issues and subject application. 2 days in university, 3 days in school, 7 weeks in total.
* 1 teaching practice in a secondary school or college of approximately 6 weeks full-time.
* 1 elective Masters level module.
January - June
* 1 academic module building upon work done earlier and generic teaching/learning and subject application, 2 days a week.
* 1 teaching practice of approximately 10 weeks - full-time placement.
* 1 option module which can be at Masters level.
Teaching and Assessment
Work based learning and teaching placements form the core of the programme, supported by seminars and tutorials, lectures, project and group work. Assessment is based on written assignments, evidence profiles and assessment of teaching practice.
Work Experience
The main part of the programme is spent in at least two partner schools or colleges. All PGCE students will spend a minimum of 120 days in a secondary school or college.
See (*Structure of the Professional Year).
Career Opportunities
As a holder of Qualified Teacher Status, you will be able to undertake secondary teaching posts throughout the United Kingdom and beyond.
There are very good employment prospects for those completing the IT PGCE programme. The employment rate was 98% for those trainees qualifying in June 2003. An induction period of one year or equivalent, in a recognised school, is necessary for employment in a school in England.
Supplemental Information
*Structure of the Professional Year
The professional year programme enables students to develop those professional skills that will ensure efficient and purposeful teaching, concentrating on the practical issues of day-to-day teaching in classroom, workshop and laboratory.
