PGCE - Secondary - Mathematics

This page includes specific details for the Secondary PGCE with a subject specialism in Mathematics. Full details of the course are available on the wider Secondary PGCE course page.

Requirements

Students enter the course with a variety of backgrounds. Some have studied mathematics at university, but many others have undertaken a numerate degree, such as in the Pure Sciences, Engineering or Economics. You should have studied mathematics at A Level (or equivalent) and there should be a substantial element of mathematics in your degree. Please contact me to discuss suitability.

The Course

Most students undertake preparation for teaching 11–18 year old pupils (i.e. including sixth form), but we also offer an 11–16 route. The choice depends on subject knowledge and student preference.

Two thirds of the year is comprised of teaching practice (24 weeks). We use many schools both locally and extending into South Birmingham, the Black Country, Warwickshire, Gloucestershire and Herefordshire. The schools are all effective trainers of students with dedicated mentors.

Of the remaining time roughly two-thirds is in subject sessions at the university. There is a mixture of styles of delivery, but the overall emphasis is on active learning, with considerable time given over to exploring practically how children learn mathematics – lectures as you may know them are rarities! A strong feature of the course is on sharing ideas and collaborative working, so the sessions become both social and interactive.

ICT is now an important part of mathematics teaching and specific hands-on sessions consider how both generic and specialised software can be used in the classroom.

Prospects

There are usually around sixteen mathematics PGCE students each year. The employment rate is excellent. Many students seek local employment and are successful in finding places in the good schools in Worcestershire and surrounding areas.

As a shortage subject there is a country-wide demand – and a bonus of the Golden Hello after a year of teaching. (Subject to TDA funding- check TDA website for details)