| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Loughborough University Mathematics PGCE program prepares students to become highly qualified mathematics teachers in secondary schools. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, the program equips graduates with the skills and confidence to effectively teach mathematics and make a positive impact on students' lives. Graduates are well-prepared for a variety of roles within the education sector, including teaching, leadership, and curriculum development.
Program Outline
The program is delivered in partnership with schools across a number of local authorities, providing practical professional preparation for the role.
Objectives:
- Equip students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies to meet the Teachers' Standards and achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) by the end of their training.
- Develop knowledgeable, confident, and reflective secondary school mathematics subject-specialist teachers capable of making a positive difference to the education and lives of young people.
- Foster a deep understanding of the connections and interdependencies between subject knowledge, teachers and teaching, learners and learning, context and behavior in secondary school mathematics.
Description:
The program is a full-time, 36-week course. Two-thirds of the time is spent in schools, where students work with experienced teachers to apply their knowledge and develop teaching skills, including extended placements in two different secondary schools. The remaining time is spent at Loughborough University, working with academics, tutors, and teachers to cover essential content and engage in critical analysis of theory, research, and practice. The program carries 90 credits towards the full MSc in Education degree (180 credits). Students who complete the PGCE with QTS can opt to continue their studies with the MSc in Mathematics with QTS, a part-time program that offers further professional development opportunities for early career teachers.
Strengths and characteristics for a successful teaching career:
- Communication skills
- Organizational skills
- A desire to bring out the best in people
- Resilience, energy, stamina, and willingness to take responsibility
- Flexibility and a willingness to adapt and learn
Outline
Content:
- General Professional Studies in Secondary Education: This module covers the wider professional requirements of secondary school teachers, including developing a systematic understanding of whole school issues, critically appraising policy and research, and developing the skills to work effectively within a multi-agency framework.
- The Reflective Mathematics Teacher: This module focuses on equipping students with the fundamental knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to analyze and evaluate the connections between subject knowledge, teachers and teaching, learners and learning, context and behavior in secondary school mathematics.
- Mathematics Teaching in Context: School Placement 1: This first extended placement begins with a planned program of observing and assisting experienced teachers to build confidence, followed by gradually increasing teaching responsibilities as skills and confidence grow. The aim is to begin applying the general and subject-specific knowledge and teaching skills/competences detailed within Core Content Framework (DfE, 2019), as well as developing the basic teaching competences detailed within the framework.
- Developing as a Reflective Mathematics Teacher: This module builds on the foundation established in "The Reflective Mathematics Teacher," providing students with more advanced knowledge, skills, and insights into analyzing and evaluating the connections between subject knowledge, teachers and teaching, learners and learning, context and behavior in secondary school mathematics.
- Embedding and Enhancing Mathematics Teaching in Context: School Placement 2: Similar to the first extended placement, this one follows a planned program and gradually builds towards the full responsibilities of a teacher. The aim is to develop the teaching skills necessary to qualify as a mathematics teacher in a secondary school and to apply the general and subject-specific knowledge and teaching skills/competences detailed within Core Content Framework (DfE, 2019) required to meet the Teachers' Standards (DfE, 2011).
Structure:
The program consists of lectures, seminars, practical sessions, and group work, offering a diverse learning environment.
Modules:
Students will take a range of modules, including:
- General Professional Studies in Secondary Education
- The Reflective Mathematics Teacher
- Mathematics Teaching in Context: School Placement 1
- Developing as a Reflective Mathematics Teacher
- Embedding and Enhancing Mathematics Teaching in Context: School Placement 2
Assessment:
Students will be assessed through a variety of methods, including written assignments, presentations, and on their practical teaching while on placement.
Teaching
Teaching methods:
The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles and maximize student engagement. These methods include:
- Lectures: These provide students with an overview of key concepts and theories.
- Seminars: These offer a platform for in-depth discussion and analysis of topics covered in lectures.
- Independent study: Students are encouraged to engage in independent study to further their understanding and develop critical thinking skills.
- Group work: Collaboration and teamwork are fostered through group assignments and projects.
- Practical sessions: Hands-on experience is provided through practical sessions, allowing students to apply their theoretical knowledge and develop teaching skills.
Faculty:
The program is delivered by experienced and passionate academics who are experts in mathematics education. They are dedicated to supporting students' learning and development and are actively involved in research in the field.
Unique approaches:
The program emphasizes the use of research-informed teaching practices and provides opportunities for students to engage in scholarly inquiry and reflection. Students are encouraged to develop their own teaching style and explore innovative approaches to teaching and learning.
Careers
Career paths:
Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers as mathematics teachers in secondary schools across the UK. The program ensures that students meet the required standards and competencies to become qualified teachers and provides them with the skills and experience needed to succeed in the classroom.
Career opportunities:
The program prepares students for a variety of roles within the education sector, including:
- Teacher of mathematics in secondary schools
- Head of department
- Assistant head teacher
- Curriculum leader
- Specialist teacher
- SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator)
Potential outcomes:
Graduates typically secure employment as mathematics teachers in secondary schools. They are highly sought after by employers due to their strong subject knowledge, pedagogical skills, and professional demeanor. Students have the option to complete the program full-time or part-time, depending on their circumstances. The program also offers the opportunity to specialize in a particular area of mathematics education through the choice of optional modules.
Conclusion
The Loughborough University Mathematics PGCE program provides a comprehensive and rigorous preparation for a career in teaching mathematics at the secondary level. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, fostering a deep understanding of the subject matter and the art of teaching. With its strong academic foundation, emphasis on research-informed practices, and commitment to student success, the program equips graduates with the necessary tools and confidence to excel in the classroom and make a lasting impact on the lives of their students.
UK fee: £9,250 Full-time degree per annum Full-time degree per annum
