PGCE Secondary Science with Chemistry

Science is an exciting, rapidly progressing subject that is challenging to teach. This largely school-based course is designed to give you the subject-specific knowledge, secure understanding of educational theory and practical teaching skills to lead learning; initiate change; and thrive as a teacher.

You attend subject-specific sessions, lectures and seminars designed to develop your awareness and understanding of the nature and content of the science curriculum; professional issues; and practical aspects of teaching such as planning and assessment.

During the course, you spend around 70% of your time in placement schools where you develop the skills and experience necessary to teach scientific concepts. You work independently and collaboratively, using a variety of teaching and learning approaches.

When you successfully complete the course, you achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), enabling you to work in a school as a teacher.

Why choose this course?

• Study at our Bedford campus, home to one of the largest education providers in the UK with a long and established history of teacher education
• Benefit from our well-established links to more than 500 schools across the eastern region, a network that puts us at the forefront of educational developments
• Learn to apply your subject and theoretical knowledge to practical areas of teaching including different teaching approaches; planning and preparation; and managing the science classroom
• Be able to evaluate the impact of applying theory to your teaching practice and use your evaluations to inform your future actions
• Hone your skills of critical self-evaluation and gain confidence in analysing your own practical experience during your school placements
• Engage with relevant research literature and develop the skills of a reflective and research-informed practitioner
• Develop your creativity and team-working skills, preparing you to influence and lead in educational settings while enhancing your own sense of independence
• As well as Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), completing the course also offers you up to 60 Masters’ level credits with opportunities for further study at MA/MSc, MPhil, PhD and EdD levels.