Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)

OVERVIEW

This Level 6/7 programme is for those who wish to enter the profession in a full teaching role in post-16 education and training. This programme is studied over one year, full time and contributes to professional formation QTLS status. The course runs for five days a week from September – June:

3 days teaching in placement faculty
2 days taught PGCE classes at Hele Road site

You will study four 30 credit modules and each module submission is assessed by a 7,500 word assignment. You will also maintain evidence of your practical teaching experiences and reflections within a Teaching File.

You will learn about relevant educational principles and theories and will reflect on how you can apply these in your specialist area. Within PGCE taught sessions you will meet a range of trainees from other subject areas and will share experiences, skills and knowledge. You will learn how to plan, deliver and assess learners in your subject area with a focus on active and inclusive learning. You will also study curriculum design and how to reflect on and develop your own practice. You will be assessed on your practical teaching skills through tutor and mentor observations and on your academic skills through a portfolio of extended written work built up throughout the course.

The course is delivered by taught sessions, group activities, discussions and independent research and reflection tasks.

You will spend three days per week on teaching placement in a college faculty. You will work alongside your subject mentor to develop your practical classroom skills.

All candidates must have: An Honours degree of 2:2 or above, relevant to the subject the applicant is planning to teach GCSE English/O-Level/Access GCSE equivalent qualification (Grade C or above). GCSE Maths/O-Level/Access GCSE equivalent qualification (Grade C or above). Good information and communication technology (ICT) skills. Candidates must be fit to teach (confirmed by DBS clearance at Enhanced Level, medical questionnaire and a suitable references).