(Secondary) Biology PGCE

This course leads to the award of Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) for the 11–16 age range, which enables you to be employed as a qualified teacher in secondary schools in England and Wales. The course also offers enrichment opportunities to teach the 16–18 age phase. We were rated Outstanding by Ofsted in our 2018 inspection.

Studying with us, you will have access to excellent resources and gain practical experience in two contrasting schools. We have partnerships with over 600 schools and colleges in the south east offering opportunities in large, small, urban and rural settings.

You will be mentored by a successful teaching team with an outstanding national reputation and comprehensive research profile that informs course content.

Course structure

Two-thirds of your year will be spent teaching, under supervision, in schools. Our tutors and mentors will advise and support you throughout each placement. You will receive comprehensive feedback during this time, enabling you to see what you are doing well and where you might need to improve.

The university works in partnership with schools and colleges to provide a high quality programme of support, ensuring a sound relationship between theory and practice. There are two placements in two schools or colleges with the opportunity to visit further schools or colleges as part of the 'Peer Observation' programme.

The School of Education is excellently equipped with multimedia training materials, giving you the opportunity to develop your confidence and competence in the use of ICT. Our multimedia suites are regularly updated to keep up with technological advancements in classroom teaching provision.

Careers

Graduates of the course are equipped with the skills and knowledge to become confident and competent secondary-school teachers.

As well as gaining a PGCE, you will be assessed against the national Teachers’ Standards in order to be recommended for the award of Qualified Teacher Status.

Science subjects are nationally recognised as secondary shortage or other priority subjects, meaning teachers qualifying in these subjects are particularly employable.

If you demonstrate a high level of understanding you may be eligible for masters-level credits.

Normally an honours degree, or equivalent qualification, in the subject specialism or a subject that is directly relevant; GCSE (minimum grade C or grade 4); at least English language and maths. In-house equivalence tests are available for suitable candidates.