Course overview

GTTR Codes:

• Science with Biology - GTTR code CX11
• Science with Chemistry - GTTR code F2X1
• Science with Physics - GTTR code F3X2

At the University of Portsmouth we are committed to meeting the needs of each individual trainee. OFSTED has stated: “University based training is of a high quality, with a varied and stimulating range of resources and activities. Subject sessions are lively, interactive and well planned. Visiting specialists are used to very good effect to enhance the quality of the training. Our partnership schools offer high quality training and commented that Subject mentors are knowledgeable and committed and provide trainees with first rate role models… [there are] particularly good arrangements to support trainees whose first language is not English, who come from minority ethnic backgrounds or who may be unfamiliar with the English educational system”. We feel confident that choosing to study at Portsmouth will be a positive, rewarding and enjoyable experience for you.

All trainees embarking on this programme will be registered on the Professional Graduate Certificate in Education pathway. During February trainees will have the opportunity to remain on the Professional Graduate pathway (taking all modules at HE level 3) or choose to follow the Postgraduate Certificate in Education pathway (taking two modules at Masters level). Further guidance will be available at interview and at the start of the course.

Why complete a PGCE in Science?

Science is a core subject in the National Curriculum and you will accept the challenge of training to be part of a rewarding and changing profession.

In this one-year course, your main concern will be with the development of your professional competence as a teacher of science. You will need to focus not only on the teaching of science itself, but also on developing an understanding of educational issues pertaining to 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 recognise the need for further development.

You will be expected to teach the three disciplines within science up to GCSE level and update your subject knowledge. This is a process that will start in the PGCE year, but will continue throughout your teaching career. You will be expected to enhance your subject knowledge through background reading, research, working in peer subject development groups, teaching and working on examination papers.

How do I find out more?

For further information, please contact us (details above) or the course coordinator, Andy Smith (andy.smith@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

T: 0871 468 0 469

Course content

University sessions will be led in a way that attempt to reflect good classroom practice. Therefore, sessions will feature discussion, collaborative work, individual work, experimental learning, the examination and analysis of materials, and the active participation of group members. You will be expected to attend all these sessions and undertake the tasks that follow the sessions, including the reading. You will spend two-thirds of your time on the course in school, where particular emphasis is placed by mentors on the planning and delivery of lessons. You will be given detailed guidance on what is expected of you in school.

Teaching and assessment

There is no examination for the PGCE but you will have to have passed 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.

What support will I have access to?

Mentors work closely with trainees in organising their programme, developing their teaching skills and subject knowledge, monitoring their work, and providing well-focused support and advice.

Career prospects

Successful completion of the PGCE in 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

Our resources

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 Science are shown above, for more detailed information please contact:

Department: School of Education and Continuing Studies (SECS)
Tel: +44 (0)23 9284 5204
Email: secs.enquiries@port.ac.uk