PGCE Secondary Physics with Mathematics

There is a nationally recognised shortage of physics teachers in schools and the Government is keen to encourage the best and brightest minds into teaching. Bath Spa University is one of the institutions selected by the TDA to run a Physics with Mathematics PGCE. 

There is a nationally recognised shortage of physics teachers in schools and the Government is keen to encourage the best and brightest minds into teaching. Bath Spa University is one of the institutions selected by the TDA to run a Physics with Mathematics PGCE. 

Why study PGCE Secondary Physics with Mathematics?

This is the ideal route into teaching if you’re passionate about both subjects and wish to teach Physics, with the flexibility of being able to teach Science at KS3 and Mathematics as a subsidiary subject up to GCSE level.

Course structure

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 two schools for a sustained period of time. During the university-based programme you will also go into a variety of other schools and educational environments to work alongside students on a variety of tasks. While in the sustained school placements you are under the guidance of a trained mentor who is supported by University staff.

Course assessment

The Postgraduate and Professional Graduate Certificates in Education (PGCE) are validated and awarded by Bath Spa University.  Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is awarded by the General Teaching Council for England (GTCE)[1], upon successful assessment against the Standards set out by the TDA in Professional Standards for Teachers in England (2007) embedded within the Profile Characteristics and successful completion of the National Skills tests in numeracy, literacy and ICT.

In order to be recommended for the award of Postgraduate Certificate or Professional Graduate Certificate with Qualified Teacher Status, you must:

• pass each assignment
• pass the subject knowledge requirements specified for Mathematics, Science, and English (Primary and Early Years programmes only)
• pass all assessed school phases
• pass National Skills tests in numeracy, literacy and ICT

It is possible for the University to award a Postgraduate Certificate or Professional Graduate Certificate in Education without recommending Qualified Teacher Status.

PGCE programmes are taught by highly qualified and experienced staff both in University and in partner schools or other settings. Teaching accommodation is located on the Newton Park campus, the Culverhay and Southdown sites and in several partner schools.

University teaching takes place in rooms equipped with relevant texts, equipment, training materials and electronic resources. Open access computer facilities are available. The University’s Virtual Learning Environment (Minerva) provides remote access to a wide range of resources.

Set texts are recommended for readings.

The Library holds a wide collection of teaching and learning resources. 

Teaching methods

Learning and teaching in PGCE programmes takes place through a combination of the following methods:

• tutorials at key points across the year
• lectures, seminars and workshops
• group activities: presentation; group discussion; role play and collaborative working
• independent learning
• peer support
• developing professional learning and practice in schools and settings
• blended learning employing electronic resources, including the University’s Virtual Learning Environment (Minerva)
• observation of teachers’ including other Bath Spa Teachers’ practice
• professional development activities undertaken in University and school or other settings.

Application method

Who can apply?

• Graduates: This route is particularly suited to graduates of physics or engineering or those with combined degree subjects, for example mathematical sciences, mathematics and physics, energy science and technology, astronomy and space science and chemical physics.

• Career changers: science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) industry professionals looking for an inspiring change of career – for example engineering professionals with a background in mechanical, civil, electrical or chemical engineering.

Course enquiries

Please contact the Admissions Officer:

Telephone: (01225) 876524.

teaching@bathspa.ac.uk.

Entry requirements

In addition to the general entry requirements you are expected to have a degree in Physics, or a related subject, with at least 50% suitable physics content. If there is no Maths in your degree, you would also need A-level mathematics. You are expected to have enthusiasm for physics and mathematics and for working with children, with recent experience of observing and/or working in schools.

If you want to teach Physics but are unsure if you have the necessary subject knowledge then you may be recommended to take the Physics Enhancement Course prior to joining the PGCE year. This is a 28-week intensive course which aims to develop a deep understanding of the subject prior to commencing the PGCE.

Career opportunities

All PGCE courses culminate in Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).  This enables qualified BST to apply for a wider range of teaching posts and other education based employment. 

What students say...

This course will run for the first time during the 2012/13 academic year.