Postgraduate Teacher Apprenticeship (PGTA) in Primary (3 – 7) with QTS and PGCE - PGCE

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.