We are passionate about teacher training, priding ourselves in nurturing the future generations of teachers, preparing them with the tools to become the best teachers they possibly can be. Therefore, we welcome a host of PGCE trainees each year, across a range of subjects. We currently work in partnership with a number of Universities:
- University of Worcester
- Newman University
- University of Wolverhampton
- University of Warwick
- Birmingham City University
We work with all of these Universities to provide outstanding teacher training programmes. The programmes lead to the award of the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) at Secondary level. You will undertake some modules in your specialist area and others related to professional studies where the focus is related to pedagogy and practice. Modules relating to professional studies are the backbone of the course and feed into subject sessions, your work in school and related teaching.
All of our trainee teachers are supported by a wide range of staff in school. Our Induction Tutor for Early Career Teaching has overall responsibility for all trainee teachers. All trainees are assigned a subject specific mentor within their chosen subject. All the training is led by experienced facilitators with a wealth of current experience ensuring high quality professional and pastoral support that also takes account of your wellbeing throughout your PGCE placement and your training year. You will be provided with a school laptop and ID badge that allow you to access the facilities at school such as printing.
Your initial teacher training year is important for giving you a solid foundation in teaching and creating a network of like-minded teachers. These people will be colleagues and friends for the future, supporting you and growing together.
You can train to teach the following subjects:
- Art
- Design & Technology
- Drama
- English
- Geography
- History
- Mathematics
- Modern Foreign Languages
- Physical Education
- Religious Education
- Science
Key features
PGCE placements will be in at least two different schools, giving you a breadth of experience and the chance to specialise while you develop self-reflection, self-criticism and self-confidence.
Extra-curricular opportunities, such as conferences and special projects, to boost your chances of employment
The course lasts for 10 months and you may be eligible for a tax-free training bursary
You will be in a supportive environment which offers a fair, consistent approach to the professional support and assessment of all trainees
You will receive a graduated timetable, allowing increased teaching responsibility
There is an excellent programme of induction, weekly CPD for all PGCE trainees
You will have an opportunity to observe experienced teachers within and outside of your specialism
There will be regular meetings between your subject mentor to set and review targets, monitoring your progress against the teacher standards
Guidance provided for successfully meeting the standards for Qualified Teacher Status
Informal lesson observations and discussions about good practice will be conducted by experienced members of staff from your subject department
Formal lesson observations with written feedback and the opportunity for discussion and reflection will also take place by the Induction Tutor and subject mentor as well as the University
Qualifications
Honours degree normally (2:2) or higher from a United Kingdom higher education institution or equivalent qualification, in a relevant subject area. Applicants with a 3rd class degree will be considered on an individual basis.
All entrants will have achieved a standard equivalent to a grade 4 (formerly grade C) in the GCSE examinations in English Language and Mathematics. Alternatively, all Universities offer equivalency tests if you don’t have the required GCSE grade to apply for their courses.
Upon successful completion of the course, you gain Qualified Teacher Status to start a rich and rewarding career in teaching.