Physics (PGCE)

Program Overview

The PGCE Physics program at the University of York prepares individuals to teach physics at the secondary level (KS3 and KS4) with a post-16 enhancement. The program combines university-based learning with practical experience in schools, equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills to be effective science teachers specializing in physics. Graduates are assessed against the Teachers' Standards and receive a PGCE from the University of York at Masters level. The program also opens doors to careers beyond teaching, such as laboratory technician, research, and education consulting.

Program Outline

PGCE Physics: Extracted Sections

Degree Overview

• Overview: This course prepares individuals to teach National Curriculum science at KS3 and KS4 (11-16) with a post-16 enhancement, specializing in physics.
• Objectives: To equip graduates with the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to be successful science teachers with a specialization in physics.
• Program Description: The PGCE Physics program offers a blend of university-based learning and practical experience in school settings.
Participants spend two-thirds of their learning time in schools and the remaining time at the university. The program is designed to develop understanding of effective teaching through observation, lesson planning, teaching, and reflection on practice. The course also covers key curriculum topics like forces, electricity, and energy specific to physics teaching.

Outline

• Program Content: The PGCE Physics program covers the following areas:
• Effective teaching strategies
• Science curriculum knowledge for KS3 and KS4
• Questioning and assessment techniques
• Lesson planning and management
• Practical work and laboratory safety
• Teaching forces, electricity, and energy
• Post-16 physics enhancement
• Structure: The program consists of two main phases:
• University-based learning: Participants attend lectures, workshops, and seminars on teaching methodologies and curriculum content.
• School-based placements: Participants gain practical experience teaching in two contrasting secondary schools, with the opportunity to participate in a primary school placement and additional placements in areas like curriculum-based projects or non-mainstream education settings.
• Course Schedule: The program follows the academic year format, starting in September and finishing in June.
Exact dates depend on placement schools and are confirmed upon offer acceptance.
• Individual Modules:
• Module Descriptions:

Assessment

• Assessment Methods: The program utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate participants' understanding and skill development:
• Lesson observation: Critical analysis of observations conducted during school placements.
• Evaluation of teaching and learning: Analysis of student work from planned and delivered lessons.
• In-depth focus study: Individual research project focusing on a specific aspect of effective physics teaching.
• Assessment Criteria: Participants are assessed against the Teachers' Standards to be recommended for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
They also receive a PGCE from the University of York at Masters level.

Teaching

• Teaching Methods: The program employs various teaching methods:
• Lectures and presentations
• Workshops and seminars
• School-based activities and classroom observations
• Collaborative learning and teamwork
• Individual and group research
• Faculty: The program is led by world-leading academics in science education and experienced teachers.
• Unique Approaches: The program emphasizes:
• Active participation and student-centered learning
• Collaboration and knowledge sharing
• Reflective practice and feedback
• Research-informed teaching and professional development

Careers

• Career Opportunities: Most graduates become physics teachers, but the program also opens doors to other careers such as:
• Laboratory technician
• Higher Education research and teaching
• Education consultant
• Training and development executive
• Systems analyst
• Transferable Skills: Graduates develop valuable transferable skills including:
• Articulating complex ideas
• Effective teaching and learning methods and strategies
• Time management and prioritization
• Information analysis and evaluation
• Computer literacy
• High professional and personal standards
• Presentation and communication skills

Other

• Entry Requirements:
• Undergraduate degree (2:2 or equivalent) in Physics or a related subject
• GCSE Mathematics and English (grade 4 or C)
• Additional requirements for non-Physics degrees or international qualifications may apply.
• English Language Requirements: IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 87, or equivalent for non-native speakers.
• Fees: £9,250 for UK students, £23,900 for international students.
• Funding: Government bursaries and scholarships are available.
This response combines information from various sections in the provided context and offers a detailed overview of the PGCE Physics program at the University of York, including the degree overview, program outline, assessment methods, teaching approaches, career opportunities, and other relevant details.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

Annual tuition fees for 2024/25 Study modeUK (home)International and EU Full-time (1 year) £9,250£23,900