PGCE Biology

This course will prepare you to teach National Curriculum science specialising in biology at KS3 and KS4 (11-16) with a post-16 enhancement.

Learn to be an effective science teacher. Gain insight into key skills across the science curriculum: questioning, assessing learning, lesson planning, management of practical work and laboratory safety.

Get to grips with up-to-date thinking and the latest research in teaching and learning. You'll benefit from our expertise as a leading centre for curriculum development, professional training and research.

Choosing your path

You can choose to study this course as a University of York PGCE trainee or through our School Direct routes in partnership with one of the following teaching alliances:

• Yorkshire Teaching School Alliance
• The Pathfinder Teaching School Alliance
• All Saints, York (Diocese of Middlesbrough Teaching School Alliance)
• Teach North

School Direct trainees work with University of York PGCE trainees at the University for Curriculum Area sessions. Whole School Issues sessions are usually delivered in your partner schools.

Accreditation

On successfully completing this course you will be recommended for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), which is awarded by the Department for Education (DfE).

Course content

The York PGCE is designed to ensure that your study at the University and your practical experience in schools work together to help you develop the theoretical knowledge and practical skills you need to be a successful teacher.

Throughout the course, you’ll develop and consolidate your understanding of what constitutes effective teaching.

Careers and skills

Most of our graduates become teachers, but the skills you learn will open other career paths too.

Undergraduate degree: 2:2 or equivalent in Biology or a related subject such as Biomedical Sciences. We also accept combined honours degrees where Biology (or a related subject) makes up at least 50% of the award. If your undergraduate degree is not in Biology or a related subject, we may still may be able to offer you a place if you also have a postgraduate degree in Biology or Grade B in A level Biology. If your undergraduate degree is not at least 50% Biology, we may require you to undertake a Subject Knowledge Enhancement course prior to starting your PGCE. Additional requirements: GCSE Mathematics grade 4 (C), GCSE English grade 4 (C).