Program Overview

Program Overview

The PGCE Primary and Early Years course is a 1-year course leading to a Postgraduate Certificate in Education with Qualified Teacher Status. Trainees choose to specialise in age phases 3-7 or 5-11, qualifying them to teach in primary schools and early years settings.

Curriculum Structure

The ITT Curriculum is sequenced and coherent to ensure trainees acquire research-led subject, pedagogical and curriculum knowledge, and develop a clear insight into how to implement this knowledge as they develop their teaching skills with the support of school colleagues across the BCU regional partnership. The ITT Curriculum is integrated across the university-based learning and the school-based training.

Learning and Teaching

The learning is led by highly experienced tutors who facilitate a wide range of practical experiences and taught sessions designed to encourage reflective and critical evaluation of research, policy, and practice.

Subject Specific Development Journal

The Subject Specific Development Journal (SSDJ) is a mandatory component of the BA Primary QTS and PGCE Primary and Early Years QTS courses. This document identifies 'Learn That' and 'Learn How' statements related to the BCU ITE Curriculum. The purpose of the SSDJ is to make the link between university-based sessions and school-based training. The document also supports school placement mentors in understanding the BCU curriculum.

Role of the SSDJ

The SSDJ is discussed during weekly meetings with the placement mentor as a reflection tool and is used to identify gaps in teaching experience. The professional conversations facilitate the enhancement of knowledge and build understanding of all subjects in the primary curriculum.

• Key aspects of the SSDJ include:
  • Identifying 'Learn That' and 'Learn How' statements
  • Linking university-based sessions with school-based training
  • Supporting school placement mentors
  • Facilitating reflection and identifying gaps in teaching experience
  • Enhancing knowledge and understanding of primary curriculum subjects