PGCE Secondary - Outdoor Activities (English Medium)

This course is also offered through the medium of Welsh.

Associate Teachers (ATs) will deliver outdoor activities at outdoor education centres, as a component of the PE curriculum, and as a method of complementing the teaching of classroom subjects in an outdoor context. ATs will regard outdoor learning as both a subject area and an experiential learning approach to teaching that adds value to the whole curriculum.

They will understand how teaching strategies are influenced by major learning theories; for example, ATs’ understanding of Dewey’s experiential learning theory will inform learning experience design promoting long-term understanding and reflection. In addition, the importance of context will be discussed, enabling ATs to appreciate the foundations of field work and links with other subjects. Current developments in outdoor learning and pedagogy will be critically analysed, thus ensuring practice is contemporary and relevant.

ATs will understand how ODA are situated within the National Curriculum in Wales and the new Areas of Learning, and will teach ODA using ICT and deliver relevant aspects of the Literacy, Numeracy and Digital Competency frameworks within the subject. ODA ATs will embody the four purposes in their teaching ensuring learners understand the importance of being sustainably literate, healthy (both physically and mentally) and able to play a valuable role in society, be that in everyday life or an adventurous context.

The Secondary PGCE programme is designed to provide you with a deep understanding of how children and adolescents learn, and equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to develop as a creative and innovative teacher. You will learn about adolescent’s development through the Secondary sector and be supported to become an excellent teacher. This PGCE with QTS* is recognised across Wales and England and is often transferable* further afield for entry into the teaching profession.

Committed schools with well-trained mentors will support Associate Teachers’ progress towards Qualified Teacher Status in accordance with Professional Standards for Teaching and Leadership in Wales.

Experienced tutors and researchers in university and school based staff will provide excellent support and stimulating sessions, and the qualification gained will equip students to teach within and beyond Wales.

Students on this English medium course will be placed in English Medium Schools only and you do not need to speak Welsh, or live in Wales, to apply for the course. However as part of our commitment to bilingualism we will support you in your understanding of Welsh culture and your Welsh language learning, whether you are a complete beginner or a fluent user of the language.

*Those seeking to teach outside Wales and England should check recognition and transferability of Qualified Teacher Status with the respective country’s Teachers’ Professional Body.

At least a 2:2 honours degree or equivalent in an area related to subject of study. Grade C/Grade 4 in the GCSE examination in any of the following: English Language, English Literature, Welsh First Language, Welsh Literature. Grade C/Grade 4 in the GCSE Examination in Mathematics or Mathematics-Numeracy must also be achieved. A willingness and positive attitude towards seeking to improve personal use of the Welsh Language. Applicants are required to undergo an enhanced DBS check for the child workforce including a check of the children’s barred lists. Applicants who have lived outside the UK are also required to undertake a criminal records check in their countries of residence.? Applicants should reflect carefully on their ability to meet the rigours and demands of the profession. Refer to the Considerations for Applicants to Initial Teacher Education Programmes. We also welcome applications from mature applicants, individuals with European qualifications and international applicants (subject to minimum English language requirements - IELTS Level 7 overall (with no element below 6.5).