PGCE Mathematics

The Mathematics course aims to give student teachers the professional skills needed to become successful teachers who can develop learners' skills and confidence in mathematics and numeracy. Working within the Mathematics and Numeracy Area of Learning and Experience, you will train to teach ambitious, capable and confident learners who are informed and confident about the world beyond school.

Course Details

Course content

Together with your fellow students on the primary and other secondary programmes, you will study the principles of effective pedagogy, assessment, lesson and curriculum planning. You will participate actively in learning, contributing to seminars, delivering presentations and engaging critically with research. During the University sessions, you will plan and deliver microlessons in preparation for the practical element of the course.

You will study the curriculum as part of the Mathematics and Numeracy Area of Learning and Experience, and you will collaborate with students in other subject areas to develop your practice in working across the curriculum. There will be a focus on the teaching of mathematics throughout the secondary age range including Mathematics GCSE and AS/A Level specifications. The ITE Partnership Group holds the Excellence Status having gained the Mathematics Tribal Award, has been cited for ERW best practice school status for delivering mathematics and numeracy across the curriculum, and all schools are experienced at successfully supporting student teachers.

On placement, you will work closely with your subject mentor and the University Link Tutor to develop your practical skills in teaching. In addition to specialist placements in secondary schools, you will experience a short placement in a primary school working with skilled primary teachers. You will also undertake an action research project to develop an aspect of your practice and begin your career as a research-informed teacher.

Teaching & Learning

Assessment

Assessment on the course takes a range of forms including, for example: essays, reflective writing, presentations, lesson plans, action research project. There are no formal examinations. Assessment of practice takes place throughout all three placements on a continuous basis.

Cross-curriculum themes

All teachers are responsible for the teaching of the three cross-curriculum themes of literacy, numeracy and digital competence. Students will be supported in planning the delivery of literacy, numeracy and digital competence in the context of their own subject.

UK Bachelors (Honours) degree, or international equivalent, in a relevant subject area. A minimum of 50% of the content of this Bachelors degree should have relevance to the subject you want to teach (i.e. Mathematics). Other Requirements GCSE Grade B in either English Language, English Literature, Welsh Language (First Language) or Welsh Literature. Where a grade B in English Literature or Welsh Literature is achieved, a minimum of grade C must also be achieved in English Language or Welsh Language (First Language). Grade B in GCSE Mathematics or Mathematics-Numeracy is also required. The University can offer GCSE Equivalency Tests in these subjects for applicants who do not hold these qualifications/grades. Previous experience or observation in a school setting is an advantage. Please note that all applicants will be interviewed as part of the selection process.