PGCE Secondary Education in Science with Biology with QTS

Overview

The PGCE Secondary Education in Science with Biology degree will qualify you to teach biology at secondary level in any state-maintained school in England. This one year PGCE Biology course blends theoretical knowledge with carefully supervised teaching experience. You will attend placements in a variety of educational settings to gain a broad understanding of the realities of secondary level teaching.

Why us?

• Funding for trainee teachers is available with tax-free bursaries of up to £26,000 for Biology trainees
• All qualified teachers will have a starting salary of at least £31,650, and this will be higher for teachers working in London
• The course is designed to enable you to spend 120 days in a school or other educational institution
• Graduate with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and be eligible to teach in any state-maintained secondary school in England

Course structure

Placements are an important part of this PGCE Biology course. During that time, you will benefit from practical learning and be supported by school-based trainers and University-based tutors.

Your progress will be assessed with written assignments, case studies and assessments of your teaching practice.

This course is a mixture of University-based learning and in-school training. The course is designed to enable you to spend 120 days in a school or other educational institution.

Course modules

Emerging Professional Practice in Secondary Education with Subject Studies (30 credits)

This module will allow you to begin experiencing life in teaching institutions to help you gain professional knowledge around teaching and learning and start to make judgements about the routines, skills, and strategies that support effective teaching. You'll investigate the key content of subject areas taught within the curriculum, considering a variety of approaches to teaching your subject specialism and identifying common misconceptions.

Professional Practice in Secondary Education with Subject Studies (30 credits)

In this module, you'll continue to build on your knowledge around teaching and learning, gaining a variety of experience in a work-based learning environment to meet professional standards identified in government legislation. You'll continue to investigate the content of subject areas taught within the curriculum, considering the different approaches to teaching your own subject specialism. You'll also formulate skillful questioning to reveal levels of pupil understanding, encouraging pupils to take responsibility for their own academic progress.

Professional Learning in Secondary Education (30 credits)

This module will help you identify, refine, and develop knowledge and understanding of pedagogical approaches, adaptive teaching, planning, and assessment strategies. You'll reflect on pedagogical approaches by linking theory to practice in a reflective journal and present on your developed understanding of professional learning.

Subject Research Study in Secondary Education (30 credits)

This module will give you the opportunity to undertake a piece of independent academic study related to your subject specialism and engage in intellectual challenge and dialogue. You'll develop both general and subject specific knowledge and skills to enhance your ability to transfer learning to further study and the workplace.

Facilities

You'll be based at the recently refurbished Wearside View, situated on the award-winning Sir Tom Cowie Campus at St Peter's. This stunning riverside location benefits from dedicated library services and has superb transport links with the city centre and City Campus.

Entry requirements

Our typical offer is:

• Qualification: a bachelor's degree (3 years)
• Minimum grade: 2:2 classification

If you already hold a postgraduate qualification, please see our Applying for additional postgraduate degrees Help and Advice article.

If you don't meet our standard entry requirements, you can take one of the foundation pathways at our partners ONCAMPUS Sunderland. Find out more information and whether your course is eligible on our ONCAMPUS page.

If your qualification is not listed above, please contact the Student Administration team at for further advice.

You'll usually need a 2:2 (or above) honours degree from a UK Higher Education institution or an equivalent qualification and be deemed suitable to train to teach by the University of Sunderland.

In addition to academic qualifications, you must also:

• Have an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
• Complete a medical pro forma (based on DFEE Circular 8/92).

Your numeracy and literacy competency will be assessed continuously throughout the course following the DfE’s removal of the Professional Skills Test.

If English isn't your first language, you'll also need International English Language Testing System (IELTS) at a score of 6.5, with at least 6.5 in writing, and no section below 6.0.

You'll be assessed on your potential to learn and not your experience.

All successful applicants will be invited to an interview. Interviews start early November, so we recommend that you apply as soon as DfE opens in October.

Please note, applicants with a foundation degree will need to supplement this qualification with at least 60 credits at level 6 (HE level 3) in order to attain an equivalent single qualification.

Fees and finance

The annual, full-time fee for this course is:

• £9,535 if you are from the UK/Europe
• £16,500 if you are an international student

Biology teachers are in short supply nationally. The Department for Education has announced bursaries of £26,000 for trainees who meet the eligibility criteria. See the Get into Teaching website for more details.

Career ready

This degree awards Qualified Teacher Status, which means that when you graduate you’ll be qualified to teach in any state-maintained secondary school in England. Most graduates from this course go on to become a secondary school teacher.

Good teachers are always in high demand. All qualified teachers will have a starting salary of at least £31,650, and this will be higher for teachers working in London. The amount you earn will then increase until you reach the top end of your pay scale, after which you can choose to progress into more senior roles, such as leading practitioner or head teacher.

The teachers’ pension scheme is also one of the most generous public sector pension schemes in the UK, one of the few guaranteed by the Government.

School placements

The University of Sunderland has partnerships with over 650 schools, colleges and other educational establishments across the North East and beyond. You’ll spend at least 120 days on placement. We’ll work with you to find you the perfect teaching placement – schools that can nurture and support your aspirations and interests, and help you become the best secondary school teacher you can be. When you’re ready to start searching for a teaching job, you will already have valuable first-hand teaching experience, as well as a wide network of professional contacts who can help you find the right career opportunities.

PGCE Science with Biology Secondary Education: Comprehensive Program Information

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Degree Overview:

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Qualification:

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

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Duration:

One year full-time

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Fees:

£9,250 (current fee)

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Awarding Body:

The University of Sunderland

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Program Highlights:

• Gain theoretical knowledge and practical teaching experience in secondary schools.
• Opportunity to spend 120 days in various educational settings.
• Eligible for tax-free bursaries up to £25,000 for Biology trainees.
• Develop skills for effective teaching and classroom management.
### Outline:

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Module Structure:

• The program blends university-based learning and in-school training.
• Students participate in 120 days of school placements.
• Modules cover various areas, including:
• Practice of Teaching (30 credits) - Develop professional knowledge about teaching and learning, gain experience in a work-based learning environment.
• Development of Learning: A Case Study (30 credits) - Research school policy and practice to address individual learning needs.
• Subject Studies (30 credits) - Explore teaching approaches for specific subject areas and develop questioning techniques.
• Negotiated Individual Study in Education (30 credits) - Engage in independent academic study related to your professional development.

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Course Schedule:

• Not available in the provided context.

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Individual Modules:

• Practice of Teaching (30 credits): Immerse yourself in teaching institutions, gain practical experience, and develop professional teaching skills.
• Development of Learning: A Case Study (30 credits): Analyze school policies and practices, and explore ways to support individual learning needs.
• Subject Studies (30 credits): Focus on the content of biology, investigate approaches to teaching the subject, and refine questioning techniques.
• Negotiated Individual Study in Education (30 credits): Conduct independent study in your chosen area of professional development.
### Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• Written assignments
• Case studies
• Assessments of teaching practice

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Assessment Criteria:

• Not specified in the provided context.
However, assessments likely focus on the expected learning outcomes of each module and the relevant professional standards for teaching. ### Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• University-based lectures and seminars
• School-based placements and observations
• Individual and group tutorials
• Workshops

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Faculty:

• Experienced education professionals
• Biology experts
• Practicing teachers in secondary schools

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Unique Approaches:

• Strong emphasis on practical teaching experience.
• Comprehensive school placements allow students to observe and participate in real-world classroom settings.
• Opportunities to receive feedback from experienced teachers and mentors.
### Careers:

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Career Paths:

• Secondary school biology teacher
• Head of Biology department
• Science curriculum developer
• Educational researcher
• Educational administrator

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Career Opportunities:

• State-maintained secondary schools across England
• Independent schools
• Private tuition services
• Educational organizations and institutions

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Career Outcomes:

• Graduates can expect a starting salary of at least £30,000, which increases over time with experience and career progression.
• The program prepares graduates for rewarding careers in teaching and other related fields within the education sector.
• Alumni may pursue leadership roles within schools or contribute to the development of educational resources and policies.
### Other:
• The program has strong partnerships with over 650 schools and educational establishments across the region.
• Students are supported throughout the program with dedicated tutors and mentors.
• The University of Sunderland offers access to extensive library resources and technology facilities.
• The program is designed to align with the latest teaching standards and government regulations.
### Disclaimer:

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Information Accuracy:

The information provided above is based on the context given and may not be completely accurate or comprehensive.

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Updates:

Changes may have occurred in the program since the context was published.

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Further Information:

For the most up-to-date and detailed information, please refer to the official University of Sunderland website or contact the program directly.

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The annual fee for this course is: £9,250 if you're from the UK/Europe Please note, this course is currently closed to international applicants.

• European Union (EU), EEA (European Economic Area), and Swiss nationals who don't qualify for the EU Settlement Scheme are classed as international, however, for 24/25 admission, you'll receive a European student fee scholarship and will pay the home tuition fee rate for the duration of your studies.
The discounted fee will be reflected in your offer letter. Learn more in our Help and Advice article.

University of Sunderland

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Overview:

The University of Sunderland is a public university located in Sunderland, England. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. The university has a strong focus on providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment for its students.

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Services Offered:

The University of Sunderland provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Access to libraries, learning resources, and academic advisors.

Student Support:

Counseling, mental health services, and disability support.

Accommodation:

On-campus and off-campus housing options.

Career Services:

Career guidance, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Student Life:

A vibrant student union, clubs, societies, and social events.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The university boasts a diverse and inclusive campus community where students can connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures. Students can participate in extracurricular activities, engage in personal and professional development opportunities, and enjoy a vibrant social scene.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Top-Quality Facilities:

The university has modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art library, sports facilities, and dedicated learning spaces.

Inclusive Culture:

The university fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students.

Vibrant City:

Sunderland is a dynamic city with a rich history and a low cost of living.

Strong Industry Links:

The university has strong connections with local businesses and industries, providing students with valuable career opportunities.

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Academic Programs:

The University of Sunderland offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Arts and Design:

Fashion, Photography, Fine Art, and Graphic Design.

Sciences:

Pharmacy, Nursing, Medicine, and Biology.

Business and Law:

Business Management, Finance, Law, and Tourism.

Computing and Engineering:

Computer Science, Software Engineering, and Electrical Engineering.

Education and Social Sciences:

Education, Psychology, and Social Work.

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Other:

The university has campuses in Sunderland, London, and Hong Kong, offering students a global learning experience. It is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability and equality, diversity, and inclusion.