School of Education and Continuing Studies (SECS)

Subject Knowledge Enhancement Courses (SKE)

Do you have a place on a Secondary PGCE Course for September 2012 but think that your subject knowledge might need 'topping-up'?

As a Trainee teacher you must have a secure curriculum knowledge of the topics you will have to teach in school. Subject Knowledge Enhancement courses aim to provide the opportunity to boost trainees' knowledge and ensure that they are well prepared for the challenges of the classroom.

Who is the course for?

Subject Knowledge Enhancement Courses are FREE for applicants that have accepted a place on an Initial Teacher Training Course for September 2012 from any institution. They will be useful for applicants who need to update their school curriculum knowledge in certain areas.

Courses available are for those intending to teach in the following secondary subject areas:

What does the course involve? 

Subject Knowledge Enhancement courses in Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics involve 10 days of tutored study based either at the University of Portsmouth or a local school. Language enhancement courses, taught in association with the University's School of Languages and Area Studies, last 16 weeks and include a placement in a college in the appropriate country.  

Course dates are 20th August - 31st August 2012 with typical daily sessions at 9.00am, finishing at 4.00pm.

During the first week participants will undertake an audit of their subject knowledge so course tutors can assess their individual needs and set personal learning targets for the course.  This will be followed by a planned series of taught sessions, seminars and individual work tailored to the needs of the group but will generally focus on subject knowledge required for early teaching practice.

Record of Achievement

At the end of the course, we will provide each participant with a summary report to give to their ITT provider with a summary profile of updated subject knowledge. Participants will also receive an individual signed record of achievement outlining their progress and improved subject knowledge.

Will I be paid to attend the course?

Yes.  You will receive a Training Bursary of £200 per week (no tax deducted) - only for students with a degree classification of 2:2 or above.

How do I apply?

You need to complete an application form and return it to us. Forms are available below, from your ITT provider or by contacting us directly (please see contact details at the bottom of this page).  Places are limited so you are advised to apply early.

NB: Please remember to attach a copy of your official letter of acceptance from the initial teacher training institution you will be studying with. We cannot consider your application unless we have this.

For further information contact:

University of Portsmouth, School of Education & Continuing Studies
St. George's Building, 141 High Street, Portsmouth PO1 2HY
T: +44(0)23 9284 5204                  
F: +44 (0)23 9284 5365
E: secs.enquiries@port.ac.uk       
W: www.port.ac.uk/secs

Subject Knowledge Enhancement application form (Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics)
Subject Knowledge Enhancement application notes 

See also: Subject Knowledge Enhancement courses in French and German