PGCE Business Studies

Program Overview

The Leeds Trinity PGCE in Business Studies equips individuals to become effective secondary school teachers, emphasizing understanding of contemporary business practices and engaging teaching methods. The program aims to develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a passion for inspiring the next generation of business professionals. Graduates are prepared to meet professional standards and pursue successful careers in secondary education.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Leeds Trinity PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) program is designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to become effective Business Studies teachers at the secondary level (students aged 14-19). The program emphasizes the importance of understanding the contemporary business landscape and effectively communicating this knowledge to students within the academic and extracurricular settings. The program aims to:

• Develop a deep understanding of the core principles and practices of business education.
• Equip graduates with the ability to design and deliver engaging and effective business lessons.
• Foster a passion for business education that inspires the next generation.
• Cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students.
• Provide graduates with the confidence and competence to lead successful careers in secondary education.

Program Objectives:

• To prepare graduates to meet the professional standards for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) in England.
• To equip graduates with the pedagogical skills essential for effective teaching and learning in Business Studies.
• To enable graduates to critically analyze business concepts and apply them to real-world scenarios.
• To foster in graduates a commitment to social justice and equity within the context of business education.

Outline:

Stage A: Introduction to Teaching (September to December):

• University-based training: Three days a week in a school, increasing to four days a week, with one day dedicated to subject knowledge and applied pedagogy (SKAP) sessions at the university.
• Professional Education Studies: Introduces key topics and issues in education, providing theoretical insights and practical strategies for navigating classroom challenges.
• Subject Knowledge and Applied Pedagogy (SKAP): Deep dives into the school curriculum for Business Studies, exploring effective teaching methods and sequence of learning for diverse student needs.

Stage B: Developing Your Knowledge and Preparing for Your New Career (January to June):

• University-based training continues, building upon stage A knowledge and preparing for the next stage of school-based training.
• Second school placement in a different setting, offering the opportunity to deepen knowledge and extend teaching practice in a new context.
• Ongoing support provided by university subject tutor, school mentor, and link tutor.
• Focus on securing the first teaching job and developing relevant skills.

Assessment:

• Formative Assessment: Occurs throughout the program, providing feedback and guidance on progress.
Evidence of teaching practice is collected from observations, lesson plans, and marked work.
• Summative Assessment: Conducted at the end of each school placement by the school mentor, using evidence from the entire placement to assess teaching practice against the Teachers' Standards.
• Progress Portfolio: Students compile evidence of their teaching practice for demonstration of meeting the Teachers' Standards.
• Master's Assignments: Two level 7 assignments assess the ability to engage in critical reflection and research-led approaches to teaching.

Teaching:

• Key Themes: Student involvement and engagement, inclusion, integrated program and assessment experience, digital literacy and skills, employability and enterprise.
• Collaborative Learning: Emphasis on student-led activities and real-world applications to foster critical thinking and reflection.
• Personalized Support: Dedicated support from university staff and experienced mentors throughout the program.
• Expert Lecturers: Faculty with strong industry and academic backgrounds
• Strong Employer Connections: Program emphasizes development of skills and experiences relevant to the current job market.
• International Outlook: Exposure to diverse perspectives and global business practices.

Careers:

• Graduates are prepared for a range of teaching positions in Business Studies at secondary schools across England.
• The program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to pursue leadership roles within schools and educational organizations.
• Opportunities for continued professional development and specialization in specific areas of business education are available.

Other:

• The program welcomes individuals with a passion for business and a drive to inspire the next generation.
• Previous experience in secondary schools is considered valuable but not required.
• Advanced qualifications such as A-Levels in Business can be advantageous.
• Observation of teaching in a secondary school setting is highly encouraged.
• The program emphasizes the development of strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Graduates are well-equipped to adapt to the changing landscape of business education and respond to emerging trends.
• The program fosters a collaborative and supportive learning environment where students can develop as confident and effective educators.

Additional Notes:

• The program curriculum is subject to change, and the provided information represents the most current details available.
• Further details and updates on the program can be found on the Leeds Trinity University website.
• Prospective students are encouraged to contact the university for any additional information or inquiries.