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PGCE Secondary Science (Biology)

PGCE Secondary Science (Biology)

Different course options

Study mode

Full time

Duration

1 year

Start date

23-SEP-24

Key information
DATA SOURCE : IDP Connect

Qualification type

PGCE - Postgraduate Certificate of Education

Subject areas

Biology (General) Teaching In Secondary Schools

Course type

Taught

Course Summary

Our Secondary Science PGCE is run by a team of committed, passionate and experienced staff who offer a diverse range of expertise and a genuine conviction that our approach to teacher education is a great way to develop outstanding teachers. Staff have extensive school and university teaching experience, and are active in researching in and working with schools to push forward the frontiers of science education. We train you to be thoughtful, creative teachers who care about children’s development and their capacity to understand and use science in their everyday lives and future careers.

Overview

Biology is the most popular science choice at 'A' level and, in addition to being a key component of Science in the National Curriculum, is also being offered as a separate GCSE option in many schools.

The PGCE Secondary Biology option provides a pathway into teaching for good biology graduates who, ideally, also have a strong background in at least one other science at 'A' level. It is designed to prepare students for teaching all aspects of science to at least Key Stage 3, and biology at GCSE and 'A' level.

Development of subject and teaching knowledge and understanding is a priority and the team of science tutors includes specialists in biology, chemistry, physics and psychology teaching.

Teaching

We are leaders in Initial Teacher Education. Our unique approach to teaching PGCE is praised by OFSTED and cited as an example of best practice on their website.

We provide unrivalled opportunities for trainees to achieve through our highly original Exeter Teaching Model. The programme runs over three terms with each term providing progressively more school-based work training.

Modules

Central to school-based work is the development of your ability to meet the standards of professional competence which trainees must demonstrate in order to meet national standards for the award of QTS.

Tuition fees

UK fees
Course fees for UK students

For this course (per year)

£9,250

International fees
Course fees for EU and international students

For this course (per year)

£23,700

Entry requirements

A typical student will have obtained good GCSE grades in ‘double science’ or in each of the three separate science subjects. They will have a good ‘A’ level grade in biology and ideally in another science subject and a good degree (first or upper second class Honours) with at least 50% of the content related to biology. Equivalent or alternative qualifications are always considered. We advise all applicants to gain some school-based experience in a state school prior to interview. Although this is not essential it would be an advantage to be able to reflect on any school-based experience or experience working with young people in another context at interview. It is always very helpful to gain an understanding of what being a secondary school biology/science teacher involves through gaining some experience in a secondary school science department. While as standard we normally only accept applicants who meet this criteria, if you have a 2:2 or equivalent, or are coming from a different academic background which is equivalent to degree level, you are welcome to make an application through UCAS for consideration or contact our PGCE Admissions team for more information.