Taught course

Secondary Science Physics

Institution
Birmingham Newman University · Department of Teacher Training
Qualifications
PGCE(QTS)

Entry requirements

An Honours degree of which science forms a part, or a recognised equivalent qualification.
GCSEs (or in exceptional circumstances their equivalent) in English Language and Mathematics at grade 4 (grade C previously). Please be aware that whilst these GCSEs are not mandatory at application point, these qualifications must be obtained by enrolment.
School experience is desirable, but not an essential requirement prior to interview. However, having experience in a school will:
Ensure that you are making the right decision to join this PGCE programme
Allows you to add additional information at interview about the experience that you have had when working with children
Gives you an advantage when you start the course as you will be able to make links between your learning and how this relates to school
At interview we will discuss with the applicant any relevant school experience or opportunities that applicants have had to work with school aged children; in a variety of settings.
The quality and variety of your personal statement is an important factor in the decision to call you to interview. Candidates must attend an interview and sit literacy and numeracy tasks at Newman University.
Passing the National Skills Tests for Literacy and Numeracy, together with obtaining a Disclosure and Barring (DBS) clearance and meeting the requirements for Fitness to Teach is also required.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The PGCE course in Physics at Newman University blends extensive school experience with school focussed taught University sessions that will prepare you to excel in as a teacher of Science in secondary school and to develop leadership potential in the physics curriculum.

Science teaching sessions at Newman are delivered in modern high quality laboratories that are designed both to model a school environment and provide an adult learning environment to enhance your training. You will have access to these laboratory facilities and technician support to facilitate the development of subject knowledge in physics through the experience of developing school practical work.

Taught sessions in Science combine the Biology, Chemistry and Physics cohorts to address areas of the curriculum which present pupils with particular difficulties. These topics also provide a context to examine the pedagogy of science teaching through themes and case studies of effective classroom practice. By combining the subjects you will develop the understanding and skills to teach all three science subjects effectively to GCSE enhancing your employability.

Newman is recognised as provided PGCE students with extensive and effective support during the course to ensure that you are able to develop as a teacher and overcome the inevitable difficulties that such a challenging training course will present. The training is further enriched through additional experiences in primary school and a range of optional placements and on a residential field study week at the end of the course. The field study week provides an opportunity to explore outdoor learning with a post 16 focus as well as an experience that will cement the strong sense of peer support that you will develop over the year.

Fees and funding

UK students
£9,250

Self-funded

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • PGCE(QTS)
    full time
    12 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

The Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is the most widely recognised UK post graduate award and is transferable. It is accepted, across the UK and internationally, as an assurance that the candidate has achieved the high standard expected for entry to the teaching profession. PGCE routes at Newman University provide two opportunities. A Postgraduate Certificate of Education which includes 60 credits at Masters level is initially followed by all students. A Professional Graduate Certificate of Education at Level 6 can be followed by applicants who demonstrate effective classroom practice but whose academic record is not suited to Masters level work.

Assessment

AssessmentWhat kind of work will I be doing? (proportionally)
Written/ formal examinations25
Written coursework / continuous assessment25
Professional practice50

Course contact details

Name
Adrian Warhurst
Email
fed@newman.ac.uk
Phone
+44(0)121 476 1181 ext 6334