Program Overview

Secondary Biology Subject Booster

Overview

The Secondary Biology Subject Booster is a flexible, free enhancement course designed for those with an offer of a place on the PGCE in Secondary Science (Biology) at Edge Hill University. The course aims to develop subject knowledge in biology to prepare students to teach the conceptual and applied aspects of the subject effectively to learners aged 11-16 years.

What you'll study

• Course content
• Teaching and assessment

The course is designed for applicants without a breadth and depth of biology study in their degree who may need to improve their subject knowledge as a condition of entry to the PGCE. The actual length of the course depends on the student's qualifications and experience and will be discussed as part of the interview process.

The course addresses subject knowledge gaps in:

• Biological molecules
• Cells
• Organisms exchanging substances with their environment
• Genetic information, variation, and taxonomy
• Energy transfer in ecosystems
• Organisms' response to stimuli
• Genes, populations, ecosystems
• Gene expression

How you'll study

The course structure and length will be flexible to reflect individual needs. The course is divided into individual units, each requiring 50 hours of learning time, normally within a space of two weeks. This learning will be a blend of face-to-face sessions, online learning, and supported self-study, with one day every fortnight on campus.

How you'll be assessed

There are no formal examinations. Students will build a portfolio from directed activities.

Entry criteria

Students may apply for the course if they have been offered a place on the PGCE Secondary Science (Biology) with QTS (11-16) at Edge Hill University.

Completion of this booster course may form part of the offer conditions for a place on the PGCE Secondary Science (Biology) with QTS (11-16). However, completion of this course does not necessarily qualify students for a place on the PGCE.

Facilities

The Faculty of Education enjoys a state-of-the-art £9m building, with facilities including:

• A 300-seat lecture theatre
• Five well-equipped ICT suites
• 18 teaching rooms complete with the latest technology

Finance

Tuition fees

• UK Full-Time: Free of charge for the course

Course changes

• Course title change: Biology Subject Knowledge Enhancement to Secondary Biology Subject Booster (29 May 2024)