PGCE Secondary - Outdoor Activities (English Medium)

Program Overview

The PGCE Secondary - Outdoor Activities (English Medium) program at Bangor University equips aspiring educators with the knowledge, skills, and experience to become effective Outdoor Activities teachers in secondary schools within the Welsh educational system. The program emphasizes bilingualism, practical skill development, and supervised teaching experience, preparing graduates for a fulfilling career in teaching and leadership in Outdoor Education. Graduates gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a range of valuable skills, including subject-specific expertise, pedagogical skills, and leadership abilities, enabling them to contribute significantly to the holistic development of young learners.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The PGCE Secondary - Outdoor Activities (English Medium) program at Bangor University is a one-year postgraduate program designed for aspiring educators who wish to specialize in teaching Outdoor Activities in secondary schools within the Welsh educational system. The program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to become effective and inspiring Outdoor Activities teachers who can contribute significantly to the holistic development of young learners.

Objectives:

The key objectives of the program include:

• Enabling Associate Teachers (ATs) to effectively deliver Outdoor Activities programs as a component of the Physical Education curriculum.
• Equipping ATs with the ability to utilize Outdoor Activities as a means of complementing classroom-based learning across various subject areas.
• Fostering the development of critical thinking and reflective learning skills in ATs through their understanding of relevant learning theories and pedagogical approaches.
• Ensuring ATs possess a comprehensive understanding of the National Curriculum in Wales and the new Areas of Learning in relation to Outdoor Activities.
• Empowering ATs to effectively integrate ICT into their teaching and to deliver pertinent aspects of the Literacy, Numeracy, and Digital Competency frameworks within Outdoor Activities.
• Cultivating in ATs the ability to embody the four purposes of the Welsh curriculum, ensuring learners develop into sustainably literate, responsible citizens with strong physical and mental well-being, while simultaneously acquiring the skills to contribute meaningfully to society.
• Preparing students to achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) in accordance with Professional Standards for Teaching and Leadership in Wales.

Description:

The program involves a blend of theoretical knowledge acquisition, practical skill development, and supervised teaching experience within participating secondary schools. Students engage with a curriculum that encompasses pedagogical theory, subject-specific content knowledge, and the practical application of Outdoor Activities in diverse educational contexts. They receive support from experienced tutors, researchers, and school-based mentors who provide guidance throughout their journey toward becoming qualified Outdoor Activities teachers. The program's emphasis on bilingualism ensures students develop an appreciation for Welsh culture and improve their Welsh language skills, regardless of their initial language proficiency.

Outline:

Program Content:

The PGCE Secondary - Outdoor Activities (English Medium) program comprises the following key content areas:

• Understanding Outdoor Activities as Both a Subject and a Pedagogical Approach: Students explore the theoretical foundations of Outdoor Activities, including their historical development, philosophical underpinnings, and contemporary trends in pedagogy and curriculum design.
• Teaching and Learning in Outdoor Activities: This module delves into the principles and practices of effective teaching and learning within the context of Outdoor Activities.
Students learn about various instructional strategies, assessment techniques, and classroom management approaches tailored to this specialized subject area.
• National Curriculum and Areas of Learning: Students gain a thorough understanding of the National Curriculum in Wales and the new Areas of Learning, specifically focusing on how Outdoor Activities align with these curriculum frameworks.
• Literacy, Numeracy, and Digital Competency in Outdoor Activities: Students learn how to integrate literacy, numeracy, and digital competency skills within their teaching of Outdoor Activities, ensuring students develop essential competencies across various domains.
• The Four Purposes of the Welsh Curriculum: Students engage with the four purposes of the Welsh curriculum - ambition, balance, coherence, and responsiveness - and learn how to embody these principles in their teaching practice to cultivate well-rounded, responsible citizens.
• ICT in Outdoor Activities: Students explore the effective use of ICT as a pedagogical tool in Outdoor Activities, including its potential for enhancing learning, engaging learners, and providing diverse learning experiences.
• Sustainable Literacy and Environmental Citizenship: Students learn about the importance of fostering sustainable literacy and environmental consciousness in their Outdoor Activities teaching, empowering students to become responsible and engaged stewards of the natural world.
• Challenge-Based Learning and Experiential Education: Students gain an in-depth understanding of challenge-based learning and experiential education principles, and learn how to design and deliver Outdoor Activities that promote personal growth, team building, and self-reflection among learners.
• Professional Development and Reflection: Students participate in continuous professional development activities and engage in critical self-reflection to improve their teaching practice and identify areas for further growth.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

• Assignments: Students complete written assignments that demonstrate their understanding of theoretical concepts, pedagogical principles, and subject-specific knowledge related to Outdoor Activities.
• Lesson Planning and Delivery: Students plan, deliver, and reflect on outdoor activities lessons, receiving feedback from both their mentors and university tutors.
• Portfolio Development: Students assemble a comprehensive portfolio showcasing their teaching practice, including lesson plans, reflections, and evidence of student learning outcomes.
• Oral Examinations and Presentations: Students participate in oral examinations and presentations to demonstrate their content knowledge, pedagogical skills, and communication abilities.
• Practical Assessments: Students engage in practical assessments that evaluate their proficiency in specific Outdoor Activities skills and leadership abilities.

Assessment Criteria:

• Content Knowledge: Accuracy and depth of understanding of subject-specific content related to Outdoor Activities.
• Pedagogical Knowledge and Skills: Ability to plan, deliver, and assess effective Outdoor Activities lessons that cater to the diverse needs of learners and align with curriculum objectives.
• Professionalism and Reflective Practice: Demonstration of professional behaviors, ethical decision-making, and a commitment to continuous self-improvement.
• Communication Skills: Clear and effective written and oral communication skills.
• Practical Skills: Proficiency in demonstrating and leading Outdoor Activities safely and effectively.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The PGCE Secondary - Outdoor Activities (English Medium) program employs a diverse range of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and facilitate active engagement. These methods include:

• Interactive Lectures and Seminars: Experts in Outdoor Activities, education, and related fields deliver engaging lectures and lead interactive семинары that promote critical thinking, discussion, and knowledge acquisition.
• Workshops and Practical Sessions: Students participate in hands-on workshops and practical sessions that provide opportunities to apply theoretical concepts and develop practical skills in various outdoor activity settings.
• Mentoring and School Placements: Students receive personalized guidance and support from experienced mentors in partner schools, gaining valuable experience in real-world classroom settings and refining their teaching practice under expert supervision.
• Independent Study and Research: Students engage in independent study and research to deepen their understanding of specific topics, explore innovative teaching methodologies, and develop their research and critical analysis abilities.
• Collaborative Group Activities: Students participate in collaborative group activities to enhance teamwork skills, communication abilities, and the ability to learn from peers and exchange perspectives.
• Technology-Enhanced Learning: The program utilizes various digital technologies to support learning, including online learning platforms, virtual reality simulations, and interactive teaching resources.
• Field Trips and Outdoor Learning Experiences: Students engage in field trips and户外学习experiences that provide firsthand encounters with diverse natural environments, allowing them to connect theory with practice and gain a deeper appreciation for the significance of outdoor learning in student development.

Faculty:

The program's faculty comprises a team of highly experienced and enthusiastic educators with expertise in Outdoor Activities, pedagogy, curriculum development, and educational leadership. The faculty includes recognized researchers, published authors, and award-winning teachers who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and expertise with future generations of Outdoor Activities educators. They are dedicated to creating a supportive learning environment that fosters intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and professional growth.

Careers:

Career Paths:

Graduates of the PGCE Secondary - Outdoor Activities (English Medium) program are well-prepared for a fulfilling and rewarding career as Outdoor Activities teachers in secondary schools across Wales and beyond. They are eligible to apply for teaching positions in various educational settings, including:

• Mainstream Secondary Schools: Teach Outdoor Activities as a specialized subject within the Physical Education curriculum and as a complementary teaching approach across various subjects.
• Outdoor Education Centers: Deliver educational programs and challenging outdoor activities to students of all ages, focusing on personal development, team building, and environmental awareness.
• Independent Schools and Alternative Educational Settings: Specialize in teaching Outdoor Activities and promoting active learning within diverse educational contexts.
• Further and Higher Education: Pursue careers as instructors or lecturers in Outdoor Education or related fields at colleges and universities.
• Adventure Tourism and Recreation: Utilize their expertise in leading guided outdoor adventures, designing outdoor recreation programs, or working in outdoor tourism organizations.
• Leadership and Educational Management: With further training and experience, graduates may pursue leadership positions within schools, educational institutions, or outdoor organizations, contributing to curriculum development, educational policy, or program administration.

Opportunities and Outcomes:

Upon completion of the program, graduates gain a range of valuable skills and qualifications that enhance their employability:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS): Graduates are eligible for QTS, which enables them to teach Outdoor Activities in schools across Wales and in many other countries internationally.
• Subject-Specific Knowledge and Expertise: Graduates possess in-depth knowledge of Outdoor Activities pedagogy, curriculum development, and subject-specific content related to various outdoor pursuits.
• Pedagogical Skills: Graduates acquire strong teaching skills, including lesson planning, assessment techniques, classroom management, and differentiated instruction.
• Practical Skills and Leadership Abilities: Graduates develop a high level of proficiency in various Outdoor Activities and demonstrate leadership skills to plan and lead safe and engaging outdoor experiences for learners of diverse ages and abilities.
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Graduates hone their written and oral communication skills, enabling them to effectively collaborate with colleagues, parents, and students.
• Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Skills: Graduates develop strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills, allowing them to adapt to changing circumstances, make informed decisions, and create innovative solutions in educational contexts.

Continuing Professional Development:

The PGCE Secondary - Outdoor Activities (English Medium) program prepares graduates to engage in continuous professional development throughout their careers. Graduates can pursue further qualifications and specializations in specific outdoor activities, educational leadership, curriculum development, or other areas of professional interest. They can also participate in ongoing professional development workshops, conferences, and networking opportunities to remain current with industry trends and enhance their teaching practice continuously.

Other:

The PGCE Secondary - Outdoor Activities (English Medium) program offers several unique advantages to aspiring Outdoor Activities teachers:

• Focus on Bilingualism: The program provides support for developing Welsh language proficiency, which is valuable for those seeking teaching positions in Welsh schools or for those who wish to enhance their employability in bilingual educational contexts.
• Placement Opportunities in Outdoor Centres: Students gain experience teaching Outdoor Activities in diverse outdoor settings, which enhances their adaptability, leadership skills, and understanding of the role of the natural environment in promoting personal growth and environmental stewardship.
• Partnership with Leading Educational Institutions: The program benefits from strong partnerships with leading educational institutions across the region, providing students with access to a wide range of resources, expert faculty, and opportunities for collaboration.
• Exposure to International Best Practices: The program incorporates insights and best practices from international leaders in Outdoor Education, ensuring students are exposed to cutting-edge research, innovative teaching methods, and global perspectives in the field.
• Commitment to Individual Support and Mentorship: The program prioritizes individual student support, ensuring each student receives personalized guidance from experienced mentors, enabling them to thrive in their teaching practice and achieve their full potential.
In addition to the core curriculum, the PGCE Secondary - Outdoor Activities (English Medium) program offers several enriching opportunities for students to expand their knowledge and gain valuable experiences beyond the classroom:
• Guest Speakers and Expert Workshops: The program invites renowned experts in the field of Outdoor Education and related areas to deliver guest lectures, conduct workshops, and share their insights with students.
• Research Opportunities: Students may engage in research projects with faculty members or pursue independent research initiatives under faculty supervision, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field of Outdoor Education and related areas.
• International Exchange Programs: The program may offer opportunities for students to participate in international exchange programs, enhancing their global perspective and cross-cultural understanding through immersing themselves in diverse educational contexts and exploring different teaching approaches and outdoor education practices.
• Participation in Conferences and Events: Students may be encouraged to present their research findings or participate in conferences and events related to Outdoor Education, gaining valuable networking opportunities and exposure to the broader professional community.