Birmingham City University

Overview

The PGCE Secondary Science: Chemistry program at Birmingham City University prepares aspiring educators to teach Chemistry in secondary schools. This comprehensive course emphasizes subject pedagogy, professional practice, and hands-on experience through supervised school placements. Students will gain the skills necessary to effectively plan, teach, and assess chemistry learning for students aged 11 to 16, with additional opportunities to support post-16 education when available.

What you'll study

The program is designed to provide a robust foundation in teaching methodologies and practical experiences:

• Secondary Professional Studies – Focuses on developing professional practice, understanding safeguarding, and fostering ongoing professional development.
• Secondary Subject Pedagogy: Science: Chemistry – Concentrates on effective chemistry teaching strategies, including lesson planning, practical experimentation, and addressing common misconceptions.
• Professional Enquiry – Encourages reflective practice and the use of evidence to enhance teaching and learning outcomes.
• School Experience 1 – An initial placement to observe and begin teaching under the guidance of experienced mentors.
• School Experience 2 – A more extensive placement where students take on greater responsibility for planning, teaching, and assessing student progress.

Placements and teaching practice

• Students will engage in a minimum of 120 days of school-based training across various placements.
• Support and mentorship are provided by both university faculty and partner school staff.

Electives

• Elective courses may be available to allow students to explore specific interests and professional development needs, such as enhancing subject pedagogy or refining teaching methodologies.

Entry requirements

While specific GRE, GMAT, or GPA grading score requirements are not specified for this program, applicants should possess a strong academic background relevant to the field of education.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PGCE Secondary Science: Chemistry program are well-equipped to pursue a variety of teaching roles in secondary schools. The program’s emphasis on practical experience ensures that students are prepared to enter the workforce as confident and competent educators, capable of inspiring the next generation of scientists.