PGCE Secondary Education in Science with Chemistry with QTS

Program Overview

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PGCE Secondary Education in Science with Chemistry with QTS

Overview

The PGCE Secondary Education in Science with Chemistry degree will qualify you to teach chemistry at secondary level in any state-maintained school in England. This one year PGCE Chemistry 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 £29,000 for Chemistry 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 Chemistry 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.

Is your qualification not displaying here? For international qualifications, search our full list of international entry requirements for this course.

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're an international student

*Undergraduate fees are set according to rules from Government in line with forecast inflation. The fee for your first year of study for 2025/26 will be £9,535. You will pay tuition fees for every year of study. Fees may increase every year based on the Retail Price Index.

Read more about EU fees and funding in our Help and Advice article.

Chemistry teachers are in short supply nationally. The Department for Education has announced training bursaries of £29,000 and scholarships of £31,000 for trainees who meet the eligibility criteria. See the Get into Teaching website for more details.

Take a look at the scholarships and bursaries that may be available to you.

This information was correct at the time of publication.

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 area 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.

Program Outline

PGCE Science with Chemistry Secondary Education at the University of Sunderland: A Comprehensive Breakdown

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Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The PGCE Science with Chemistry Secondary Education degree equips you with the knowledge and skills to become a qualified Chemistry teacher in secondary schools across England. This one-year program skillfully blends theoretical knowledge with carefully supervised hands-on teaching experience. You will gain practical experience through placements in various educational settings, providing a comprehensive understanding of the realities of teaching at the secondary level.

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Objectives:

• To develop the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach Chemistry in secondary schools.
• To achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), allowing you to teach in any state-maintained secondary school in England.
• To understand the latest teaching methods and strategies, ensuring you are equipped with the most effective pedagogical approaches.
• To confidently manage a classroom environment and foster a positive learning experience for students.
• To contribute to the development of passionate and inspiring scientists of the future.

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Program Description:

This program is designed to immerse you in the world of secondary education, providing a unique blend of theoretical understanding and practical classroom experience. You will attend placements in diverse educational settings, allowing you to gain invaluable experience working with students from different backgrounds and learning styles. The program also focuses on developing your critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, essential for effective teaching. You will learn to create engaging and effective lesson plans, assess student learning, and provide constructive feedback.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

• Chemistry Subject Knowledge: The program delves deep into the fundamentals of chemistry, ensuring you have a thorough understanding of the subject matter you will be teaching.
• Pedagogical Skills: You will develop essential teaching skills, including lesson planning, classroom management, assessment, and effective communication.
• Professional Development: The program emphasizes professional development, preparing you for the challenges and rewards of a career in teaching.

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Program Structure:

• This one-year program consists of a combination of university-based learning and in-school placements.
• You will spend approximately 120 days in various educational settings, gaining hands-on experience under the guidance of experienced teachers and university tutors.
• The program follows a blended learning approach, incorporating lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent study.

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Course Schedule:

The exact course schedule may vary, but typically includes modules on:

• Practice of Teaching: This module focuses on developing your practical teaching skills, including lesson planning, classroom management, and assessment.
• Development of Learning: A Case Study: This module dives into research methods and their application in educational settings.
You will conduct a case study to identify and address the individual learning needs of students.
• Subject Studies: This module explores the nuances of teaching chemistry at the secondary level.
You will learn how to approach different topics, formulate effective questioning techniques, and create engaging learning experiences.
• Negotiated Individual Study in Education: This module allows you to pursue independent study in an area of your choice, further developing your knowledge and skills relevant to your professional development.

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Individual Modules:

• Practice of Teaching (30 credits): This module provides hands-on experience in teaching, allowing you to develop your skills and gain confidence in the classroom.
• Development of Learning: A Case Study (30 credits): This module equips you with research methods and their application in educational settings.
You will conduct a case study to identify and address the individual learning needs of students.
• Subject Studies (30 credits): This module deepens your understanding of chemistry and how to effectively teach it at the secondary level.
You will learn how to approach different topics, formulate effective questioning techniques, and create engaging learning experiences.
• Negotiated Individual Study in Education (30 credits): This module allows you to pursue an independent area of study, further enhancing your knowledge and skills relevant to your professional development.
### Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• Written assignments: You will complete written assignments demonstrating your understanding of key concepts and your ability to apply them in practical teaching scenarios.
• Case studies: You will conduct case studies to analyze specific educational situations and develop solutions to address the individual needs of students.
• Teaching practice assessments: Your teaching skills will be assessed through observations and feedback from experienced teachers and university tutors.
• Examinations: In some cases, you may be required to take written examinations to assess your subject knowledge and understanding of educational theories.

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Assessment Criteria:

• The assessment criteria will vary depending on the specific assessment method.
However, all assessments will be evaluated based on your ability to demonstrate:
• A deep understanding of the subject matter.
• Effective teaching skills and strategies.
• The ability to reflect on your own teaching practice and identify areas for improvement.
• A commitment to professional development and continuous learning.
### Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and preferences. These methods include:

• Lectures: University-based lectures provide a foundation in key theoretical concepts and educational principles.
• Seminars: Interactive seminars allow you to engage with your peers and tutors, discuss complex topics, and explore different perspectives.
• Workshops: Practical workshops provide opportunities to develop your teaching skills and techniques under the guidance of experienced facilitators.
• Independent study: You will also be expected to undertake independent study to deepen your understanding of the material and prepare for assessments.

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Faculty:

The program is delivered by a team of experienced and qualified educators with expertise in chemistry, education, and professional development. The faculty is committed to providing students with a supportive and stimulating learning environment.

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Unique Approaches:

The program incorporates several unique approaches to enhance your learning experience:

• Placement-based learning: The extensive placement opportunities provide invaluable hands-on experience and allow you to apply your theoretical knowledge in real-world teaching scenarios.
• Individualized support: The program provides personalized support to help you achieve your potential and develop your teaching skills.
• Focus on professional development: The program emphasizes professional development, preparing you for the challenges and rewards of a teaching career.
### Careers:

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Career Paths:

Upon successful completion of the program, you will be qualified to pursue a career as a Chemistry teacher in secondary schools across England. You may also choose to pursue further studies in education or related fields.

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Opportunities:

The demand for qualified Chemistry teachers is high, with excellent job prospects for graduates of this program. You will have the opportunity to work in a variety of educational settings, including state-maintained schools, independent schools, and further education colleges.

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Outcomes:

Graduates of this program are well-prepared to make a positive impact on the lives of their students and contribute to the development of future generations of scientists. They are highly sought-after by schools and are known for their subject knowledge, effective teaching skills, and commitment to professional development.

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Other:

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Funding:

• The program is eligible for funding through tax-free bursaries of up to £28,000 for Chemistry trainees.
• All qualified teachers will have a starting salary of at least £30,000, with higher salaries for teachers working in London.

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Facilities:

• You will have access to modern facilities, including well-equipped science labs and dedicated library services.

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Support:

• The program provides a comprehensive support system, including academic advisors, career guidance, and access to mental health and well-being services.

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International Students:

• The program welcomes applications from international students.
However, international students should note that the program is currently closed to new applications.

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Entry Requirements:

• A 2:2 (or above) honours degree from a UK Higher Education institution or an equivalent qualification
• Minimum of a 6.5 IELTS score, with at least 6.5 in writing and no section below 6.0 (for non-native English speakers)
• A strong interest in teaching Chemistry
• Successful interview

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Application Process:

• Applications are typically made through the UCAS website.
• The application deadline is usually in early November.
• Interviews are held shortly after the application deadline.

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Open Days:

The University of Sunderland hosts regular Open Days, providing prospective students with the opportunity to learn more about the program and tour the campus.

Conclusion:

The PGCE Science with Chemistry Secondary Education degree at the University of Sunderland is an excellent choice for individuals passionate about teaching Chemistry and making a positive impact on the lives of young people. The program provides a comprehensive and well-rounded education, equipping graduates with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to thrive in a rewarding career as a Chemistry teacher.

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Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

• £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.