This page may contain additional navigation below.
PGCE Secondary - Science
This programme prepares you to become a confident and effective teacher of science in secondary schools to pupils aged 11-16, in line with National Curriculum requirements. There is also the opportunity to experience post-16 physics, chemistry or biology through University based sessions on planning, teaching and assessment at post-16.
In order to comply with the TDA regulations regarding the payment of the subject bursary there are three routes through the course.
Secondary Science / Physics
- You must either have a degree with at least 50% Physics content or have undertaken a recognised Physics Enhancement Course.
- During the course you will do compulsory Physics modules and on your placements you will teach Physics as your major subject.
Secondary Science / Chemistry
- You must have either a degree with at least 50% Chemistry content or have undertaken a recognised Chemistry Enhancement Course.
- During the course you will do compulsory Chemistry modules and on your placement you will teach Chemistry as your major subject.
Secondary Science
- You must either have a degree with at least 50% Science content or have undertaken a recognised Science Subject Enhancement Course.
- During the course you will cover modules to equip you to teach Science across Key Stage 3 and 4. You may opt to teach another subject at A-level depending upon your qualifications e.g. Biology, Psychology, Geology.
Course Structure and Content
The programme has University and school based components. The University based programme concentrates on subject knowledge and the teaching of classroom skills and management. You will undertake an initial audit of subject knowledge and this is used by staff in planning the sessions so that your needs are met. The sessions have a high level of practical work so that you gain the subject knowledge as well as skills in teaching the topics.
School based work forms the major part of the programme and you will have the opportunity to work in at least three schools for a sustained period of time. While in school you are under the guidance of a trained mentor who is supported by University staff.
Teaching Methods and Resources
University sessions are devoted to showing how biology, chemistry and physics topics may be taught within science lessons as well as developing the pedagogical understanding needed to secure pupils' learning in science. You are encouraged to consolidate your background knowledge in all three sciences.
Workshops allow you to explore a range of teaching resources, and to undertake experimental work, including information technology methods such as data logging and spreadsheets. The use of the outdoor environment as a teaching resource is also explored.
During the course you will explore how effective classroom management strategies can help science lessons effectively. We also consider how to engage all the pupils in the learning. There is a strong emphasis on 'How Science Works' which can give relevance to the science being taught.
There are extensive materials available on the internet that you can access and use. You are also encouraged to develop your ICT skills in preparing PowerPoint presentations, as well as using ICT for monitoring and recording pupils' progress. Assignments are set and marked against the Standards. You are encouraged to submit these at Master's level.
The most important way of practising these approaches is the experience of working alongside experienced teachers in a local science department. This enables you to build up your confidence and professional skills in a supportive atmosphere, preparing you for the two school phases.
Entry Requirements
In addition to the General Entry Requirements, you are required to have a degree with at least 50% suitable science content for the route you are applying to do, which you should state clearly on your application. You are expected to have enthusiasm for the sciences and for working with children, with recent experience of observing and/or working in schools. If you want to teach science but are unsure if you have the necessary subject knowledge then you may be recommended to take a Physics Enhancement Course.
