This page may contain additional navigation below.
PGCE Secondary - Music
The programme is designed for graduates who wish to work in the following careers: music teaching in a secondary school, visiting instrumental teacher, teaching music in a community arts context and education officers working with professional arts organisations.
Course Structure and Content
There is a focus on real experience with children in school, and you work with pupils in local schools during your University-based weeks, under the guidance of tutors and school staff. The programme will prepare you to become a successful and valuable member of a secondary school music department and develop your ability to teach pupils aged 11-16 to meet Qualified Teacher Status.
You will explore quality issues to do with teaching and learning in music, drawing on the latest research and practice in music education. Planning, assessment and developing resources feature heavily in the first few weeks of the programme. These sessions are interspersed with world music workshops, opportunities to work with Key Stage 3 and 4 pupils in practical workshops at university, and developing conducting skills both with vocal groups and instrumentalists. Exploring and extending subject knowledge is a continuous thread throughout the programme and there are opportunities to develop instrumental and music technology skills.
During the second phase of teaching at university, you are encouraged to be involved in additional musical opportunities such as working with primary pupils, working with local music services, leading cross curricular projects in secondary schools and working in a Special School as well as visiting gifted and talented pupils from Wells Cathedral School. You will also organise and run a one day A-level Music and Music Technology conference for local sixth formers.
Teaching Methods and Resources
The tradition of music education is a long established one at Bath Spa University and offers one of the best music education experiences in the South West. We currently work with local schools which offer excellent support through mentors and professional tutors, local music services and musicians. Bath Spa University is one of the leading providers of continuous professional development for serving music teachers from Early Years to secondary level through the annual Bath Spa Music Education Conference.
There are excellent music technology resources available for use both at Culverhay and through the School of Music and Performing Arts at Newton Park. Local musicians and teachers are invited regularly to give workshops and lectures during the programme focussing particularly on world music and the practical application of theory and pedagogies in the classroom.
Assessment Methods
Assessment is through three PGCE assignments two of which can be taken at Masters’ level and through school based assessment of teaching on two school phases.
Entry Requirements
In addition to the General Entry Requirements you are expected to have a degree in Music (including Music Technology, Performance etc.) with music as a major element. Some keyboard skills would also be desirable. In addition you are expected to have enthusiasm for music and for working with children, with recent experience of observing and/or working in schools.