Postgraduate Teacher Apprenticeship (PGTA) in Primary (3 – 7) with QTS and PGCE - PGCE
Program start date | Application deadline |
2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Postgraduate Teacher Apprenticeship (PGTA) in Primary (3-7) with QTS and PGCE is a program designed for individuals employed in a school setting to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a master's level PGCE. It combines on-the-job experience with university training, allowing participants to develop their teaching skills and knowledge while remaining employed. The program is nationally recognized and offers a practical approach to teacher training, with no tuition fees.
Program Outline
Postgraduate Teacher Apprenticeship (PGTA) in Primary (3 – 7) with QTS and PGCE - PGCE
Degree Overview:
This program allows individuals currently employed in a school setting to develop their career and gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a master's level PGCE. It combines on-the-job experience with university training and is designed for individuals who already understand what it takes to work in a school and have some teaching assistant experience.
Objectives:
- Equip participants to teach three to seven-year-old children (Key Stage 1).
- Provide a practical approach to teacher training within the context of the participant's current school.
- Offer a nationally recognized route into teaching with no tuition fees.
- Support the development of professional skills and knowledge necessary for effective teaching.
- Prepare graduates for a rewarding career in primary education.
Outline:
Program Content:
- Focuses on developing the knowledge, skills, and understanding needed to teach effectively in Key Stage 1.
- Covers essential areas such as the cognitive science of learning, working with children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), and students with English as an additional language.
- Provides opportunities for participants to reflect on their own practice and critically engage with current research, policy, and pedagogy.
Program Structure:
- Participants remain employed by their current school on the Unqualified Teacher pay scale.
- 20% of the working week (one day per week) is dedicated to off-the-job training.
- Training includes face-to-face sessions at the University and independent training tasks in the workplace, allowing participants to balance their studies with their existing school responsibilities.
Assessment:
- Assessment methods include practical work, portfolios, and coursework; there are no final exams.
- Participants are assessed on whether they are meeting Teacher Standards by the end of their second placement.
- Assessment involves observations of teaching, a portfolio of evidence, and collaboration between university tutors, school mentors, and the participant.
Teaching:
- Participants are taught by experienced classroom practitioners and teacher trainers who possess expertise in their field.
- The curriculum is designed to cater to the specific needs of developing teachers.
- Participants benefit from a comprehensive and supportive university program and the encouragement of a network of fellow apprentices.
Careers:
- The program prepares graduates for a successful career as primary school teachers.
- Many graduates remain employed in local schools, with opportunities for advancement and leadership roles such as mentors.
Other:
- The program is built on well-established foundations and combines university expertise with a dynamic curriculum designed to meet the needs of developing teachers.
- Participants are encouraged to apply for a Postgraduate Loan, which can cover over £10,000 of their tuition fees.
- The program is subject to validation.
- Entry requirements include employment as an apprentice teacher in one of the University's partner schools, a UK degree (preferably with a grade of 2.2 or equivalent), GCSEs in English, Mathematics, and Science at grade C/4 or above, a valid DBS Certificate, a Fitness to Teach check from London Metropolitan University, and literacy and numeracy tests.
- Accreditation of Prior Learning is available for relevant prior qualifications or experience gained prior to starting the program.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must fulfill the following entry requirements:
- Employment as an apprentice teacher in one of our partner schools:
- This requirement implies that the applicant must already be employed and working as an apprentice teacher at a school partnered with London Metropolitan University.
- A UK degree, preferably grade 2.2 or equivalent:
- The applicant must have completed a Bachelor's degree awarded by a UK institution, ideally with a minimum grade of 2.2 or a comparable qualification from a recognized institution.
- GCSE English, Mathematics, and Science grade C/4 or above, or equivalent:
- The applicant must have obtained a minimum grade of C/4 or equivalent in GCSE examinations for English, Mathematics, and Science.
- An (*) beside this requirement clarifies that if an applicant undertakes a GCSE equivalency test, they may also be required to complete a Functional Skills test as part of the course.
- A valid Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Certificate:
- The applicant must possess a valid DBS certificate, which verifies their suitability for working with children and vulnerable groups.
- Confirmation of Fitness to Teach - a London Metropolitan University health check:
- The applicant must be deemed fit to teach by completing a health check conducted by London Metropolitan University.
- Literacy and numeracy tests:
- The applicant will be required to take university-based literacy and numeracy tests as part of the interview process.
- Non-EU citizens:
- Professional requirements:
- You must not already hold Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or be qualified to teach in another EU/EEA country.
Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL):
- London Metropolitan University acknowledges and values prior qualifications and relevant experience gained by applicants.