PGCE Secondary

 

The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (Secondary) (PGCE) is a course which prepares and reinforces the abilities of students to teach in secondary schools. There is a strong emphasis on theoretical training supported by online seminars and lectures.

 

Two-thirds of the course is assessed on essays, with school-based experiential reports beginning in diary form from week one of the course. These experiences are supported by requirements which engage the candidate in considering models of teaching and theories of learning and using these to understand and develop understanding of school-based theories.

 

This mix of practical school and essay experiences comprise two masters level modules that form the PGCE.

 

Teaching reports are assessed by tutors (online), practical assessors and co-ordinators, and external examiners. Account is taken of candidate work over all essay-based elements of the course and your own written records of practical classroom experience.

 

You must satisfy the examiners in both theory and with the record of your practical working experience, and must satisfy the requirements for the Teacher Standards. In keeping with the nature of the course, which is vocational and postgraduate in approach, there is no written examination.

 

Modules

Learning and Teaching

This 30-credit module explores teaching and learning in subject disciplines and more generally. An extensive programme of lectures and seminars will enable you to develop a practical knowledge of teaching informed by a critical understanding of theories of teaching and learning. The module is assessed through written assignments, submitted PowerPoint (or other) presentations and related online-based work.

 

Schools and Society

This 30-credit module considers various aspects of teachers' wider professional roles as well as social, cultural and legal aspects of schooling. This is assessed through written assignments and submitted PowerPoint (or other) presentations, some of which are collaborative (online). Some specialist subject work also contributes to this module.

 

The modules we offer are inspired by the research interests of University staff and as a result may change for reasons of, for example, research developments or legislation changes. This list is an example of typical modules we offer, not a definitive list.

PGCE Secondary