Initial Teacher Training - Biology: Secondary with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) PGDE

This course aims to develop inspirational teachers of Science who can enthuse learners in Biology by setting the subject content in real world contexts and emphasising the relevance of the subject to learners' everyday lives. You will prepare to teach Key Stage 3 Science and Key Stage 4 Biology as a component of the Secondary Science Curriculum, with complementary sessions aimed at consolidating your knowledge of Key Stage 3 Physics and Chemistry.

During your training you will focus on a variety of approaches and pedagogies used in Science education, emphasising the application of theory to practice. A sequence of micro-teaching experiences will allow you to develop and share your understanding of learning with your peers. You will also identify teaching strategies that support effective practice in the classroom. You will then explore the signature pedagogies of Science such as practical and investigative work, modelling, and problem solving. Sessions will help you deepen your understanding of the role and nature of Science in the curriculum and identify your own personal philosophy of Science.

Science education provides the foundations for understanding the world, and should excite in learners a curiosity about natural phenomena. The ability to apply logical thinking and use rational explanation are key transferable skills that learners develop through their Science lessons. The subject pedagogy sessions will help you identify strategies to support how children learn Science and develop key skills and ways of thinking about the world through the application of signature pedagogies of Science.

The subject knowledge sessions focus on common misconceptions held by Secondary Science students and are "hands on" with a strong emphasis on practical and investigative Science teaching. We focus on the "Big Ideas of Science Education" as identified by the Association for Science Education, which identifies 10 principles that should underpin the Science education of all students. As well as broadening your own Science knowledge, these sessions introduce you to strategies that allow you to make your Science knowledge as accessible and interesting as possible to Secondary Science students.