PGCE Primary Education (3-7) with Recommendation for Qualified Teacher Status

Leeds Beckett University

COURSE OVERVIEW

Train to be a primary teacher and embark on a career in schools teaching children between three and seven, in Key Stage 1 and the Early Years Foundation Stage.

We will develop your knowledge and understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage and the National Curriculum to ensure your teaching fulfils the requirements set out by the Government. With an emphasis on mathematics, English and Science at both Key Stages, you will embrace areas of learning and principles of best practice in early primary education across all subjects.

You will put your theoretical knowledge into practice. As part of your training, you will complete three teaching placements in the Early Years Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1, developing your teaching skills across different age ranges and helping to prepare you for future employment. Throughout these placements you will gain the specialist knowledge and teaching skills required to meet the needs of pupils in the three to seven age range.

You will develop children's abilities through playful learning and creative teaching, and you will reflect on how your teaching methods and the opportunities and environments you create can influence outcomes. Your training will include a focus on outdoor play and learning. You will have the opportunity to attend a forest school workshop using our outdoor classroom, where you will learn different techniques to bring learning to life and spark your pupils' imaginations.

As a primary school teacher, you will work closely with teaching assistants, parents and complex teaching teams to deliver a range of activities. We will give you the skills and confidence to manage these relationships to ensure you can deliver an outstanding learning experience for your class.

One of your most important tools as a teacher will be your voice. You will learn how to use it effectively when addressing large groups of children and how to look after it. We will also develop your understanding of safeguarding children, giving you the important ability to spot the signs of vulnerable children. The course leads to Qualified Teacher Status and qualifies you to teach in the primary (3-11) sector.

You can choose from two different training models.

University-led: You will develop your theoretical knowledge at our Headingley Campus, which offers a superb learning environment, modern facilities and excellent resources. Your learning will be informed by the very latest research and the expertise of our supportive teaching staff. We will organise your extensive school placements so you can apply your knowledge in a classroom setting and your placements will be timetabled to fit with your taught seminars on campus.

School Direct: For the vast majority of your course, you will be based in your provider school or schools, learning on the job while being supported by experienced teachers and mentors. You will attend our Headingley Campus one day a week (usually a Friday) for key module seminars.

TEACHING & LEARNING

Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through a number of modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study. Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to the specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.

Our silver status in the latest Teaching Excellence Framework, reflects our commitment to deliver high-quality teaching, learning and outcomes for our students.