PGCE Secondary School Direct Science: Biology (11-16 or 11-18)

Course description

PGCE Secondary School Direct Science: Biology (11-16 or 11-18) provides you with the practical training and theoretical knowledge required to become an outstanding Biology teacher.

Compared with non-School Direct teacher trainees, you will benefit from additional time in school before the PGCE starts and follow a modified version of the course. Throughout, you will focus on the 11-16 age range in order to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), learning to teach the National Curriculum and related national strategies surrounding GCSE, AS and A2-level study.

The majority of the course focuses upon practical training in teaching and learning-related skills. You will enjoy extended periods of school experience, which will provide opportunities to work in a Primary setting and to teach in at least two different Secondary schools. In total, 25 weeks of your PGCE will be spent experiencing and working in different types of school.

This practical training is underpinned by the development of your knowledge and understanding of educational theories, ideas and concepts, including current issues and developments.

We work with numerous schools in Greater Manchester to offer the School Direct route into teaching.

School Direct allows schools to recruit and select their own trainees, with the expectation that they will go on to work within the school, or group of schools, in which they were trained (although there is no guarantee of employment).

School Direct follows a PGCE course structure but on a modified timetable including increased contact with the School Direct school.

The School Direct salaried route is an employment-based route and you will earn a salary whilst you train. Trainees who complete their course will be recommended for the qualification of PGCE School Direct and recommended for qualified teacher status (QTS).

Aims

You will:

gain quality teaching experience in our partner schools and colleges;
study current, challenging educational issues;
receive careers planning and early professional development guidance and support from experienced tutors and mentors;
receive opportunities for reflective practice and research.

Career opportunities

Completing a PGCE is one route to becoming a fully qualified teacher. This form of teacher training is recommended for anyone with an undergraduate degree who is looking to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

You need QTS to teach in a state-maintained or special school in England and Wales. Whilst other routes to gain QTS exist, they do not all come with the postgraduate qualification of a PGCE. A PGCE from The University of Manchester is a valued qualification regionally, nationally and internationally.

When you study a PGCE with us, we help you prepare for a successful career in education. You will be given clear direction, advice and support when making applications for teaching posts and our employment rates are consistently high.

In addition to this, a PGCE qualification can count as 60 of the 180 credits required for a Master's degree, and The University of Manchester offers a range of postgraduate Education courses should you wish to continue your professional development by completing a Master's as you progress further in your career.