Secondary English PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education)

Program Overview

The PGCE in Secondary English is a one-year, full-time program that prepares students to become qualified English teachers at the secondary level. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, including extensive school-based placements and a focus on developing subject knowledge. Graduates are eligible to apply for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and have a strong track record of finding employment in schools.

Program Outline

Outline:

• Course content: The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience.
Students will learn about the English curriculum, teaching methodologies, assessment strategies, and classroom management techniques.
• Structure: The program consists of three main components:
• University-based modules:
These modules cover the theoretical foundations of teaching and learning, including child development, curriculum theory, and assessment.
• School-based placements: Students will spend at least 120 days in two local secondary schools, where they will observe experienced teachers, co-teach lessons, and gradually take on more responsibility for teaching.
• Professional development: Students will participate in workshops, seminars, and individual tutorials to develop their teaching skills and knowledge.
• Modules: The program includes a variety of modules, such as:
• Educational and Professional Issues:
This module explores the role of a teacher, including professional ethics, inclusion, and safeguarding.
• Teaching a Knowledge-Rich Curriculum: This module focuses on the English curriculum, including subject knowledge, planning, and assessment.
• Teaching Practice 1 and 2: These modules provide students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in the classroom under the guidance of experienced teachers and university tutors.

Assessment:

• Formative assessment: Students will receive regular feedback on their progress through assignments, presentations, and observed teaching practice.
• Summative assessment: Students will be assessed on a variety of tasks, including written assignments, portfolios, and observed teaching practice.

Teaching:

• Teaching methods: The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and individual tutorials.
• Faculty: The program is taught by experienced and qualified English teachers and education professionals.
• Unique approaches: The program includes a number of unique features, such as:
• A focus on developing subject knowledge:
Students will learn about the English curriculum in depth, including literature, language, and media studies.
• Extensive school-based placements: Students will have the opportunity to gain valuable practical experience in the classroom.
• A strong emphasis on professional development: Students will receive ongoing support and guidance to help them develop their teaching skills and knowledge.

Careers:

• Career paths: Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be qualified to teach English in secondary schools across England.
• Opportunities: There is a high demand for qualified English teachers in the UK.
Graduates of the program will be well-positioned to secure teaching positions in a variety of schools.
• Outcomes: Graduates of the program have a strong track record of finding employment in schools.
Many graduates also go on to pursue further studies in education or related fields.

Other:

• **The program is accredited by the Department for Education.

• **Graduates of the program will be eligible to apply for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

• **The program includes a number of extracurricular activities, such as poetry workshops and visits to the New Vic Theatre.