PGCE Computer Science

  • Subject to approval

  • Mode of study: Full time
  • Duration: 1 year
  • Entry requirements for 2013 entry: A good honours degree or equivalent in a relevant subject, with approximately 50% Computer Science content. GCSE Mathematics and English language at grade C or above, or equivalent. All shortlisted applicants are subject to interview. All offers are subject to Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance and Occupational Health clearance. All applicants must pass the Teaching Agency's professional skills tests in literacy and numeracy before starting the course.
  • IELTS score: Applicants whose first language is not English, and who do not have GCSE English language at grade C or above, require English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 or equivalent with no component less than 6.0.
Print course

Find out more:

Tel: +44 (0)23 9284 5204
Email: humanities.admissions@port.ac.uk
Department:

Course overview

GTTR Code - IX99

Teaching computer science combines a rewarding career with a necessary subject for 21st-century pupils. This course aims to equip you with the skills to make the teaching of it as interesting, fun and engaging as possible.

The PGCE at Portsmouth is a one-year course, primarily building your professional competence as a teacher of computer science. You will also focus on your understanding of educational issues such as teaching and learning, classroom interaction, the school curriculum and the school and society.

As well as becoming a competent classroom practitioner, you will need to be able to make informed decisions and to recognise the need for further personal and professional development, particularly where your subject knowledge is concerned.

At the end of this course you will receive a PGCE as well as the award of QTS.

There is also an option to study on this course at Masters level and accumulate 60 masters level credits, which can then be put towards a full Masters qualification when you are teaching.

How do I find out more?

For further information, please contact us (details above) or the course coordinator, Andrew Porter (andrew.porter@port.ac.uk).

For more information about Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, please visit http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/Startinganewjob/index.htm

Applications

Applications should be made through the GTTR (Graduate Teacher Training Registry). Please apply online at www.gttr.ac.uk.

Course content

Course Content

The course is essentially practical and two-thirds of your time will be spent in school where you will be working closely with mentors and other school staff.

Throughout the year you will be engaged in considering a range of subjects including:

  • Subject knowledge enhancement
  • Lesson planning
  • Classroom management
  • Special needs and inclusion
  • Assessment
  • Research into the pedagogy and psychology of studying computer science

There is no examination for the PGCE but you will have to pass the DfE Skills Tests in Literacy and Numeracy before entry.

Assessment of the course is by professional interview, completion of tasks, observation of teaching and written assignments.

The programme offers trainees a choice between the Professional and the Postgraduate route, with the latter allowing trainees to graduate with 60 M-level credits.

Career prospects

Successful completion of the PGCE in Computer Science will enable you to gain Qualified Teacher Status and will provide for a career in secondary teaching. Over 90% of our students each year gain employment with 60% of those getting jobs in our partnership schools.

Facilities and features

Portsmouth has a reputation for providing a supportive and friendly atmosphere in which its students can quickly settle and enjoy their studies. You will have access to a full range of support services for personal issues and academic study. Personal tutors will assist with directing you to accessing support you may find helpful, while you will also have access to appropriate University resources, including our main library and computing facilities, which are open seven days a week.

The School of Education and Continuing Studies staff are all experts in a range of appropriate subject specialisms. Their enthusiasm and motivation means you will be encouraged to gain the most out of your time with us.

Entry requirements

The entry requirements for PGCE Computer Science are shown above, for more detailed information please contact:

Department:
Tel: +44 (0)23 9284 5204
Email: humanities.admissions@port.ac.uk