PGCE Physics with Maths Partnership
Background to PGCE Physics with Maths
Durham's ITE provision was considered 'Outstanding' in all aspects by Ofsted. Based on the School of Education's expertise in Science and Maths provision we were successful in our bid for Physics and Maths trainees, and were allocated a quota of 10 for 2012-13.
We intend to build on the strengths of our current provision as we believe strongly that to be able to teach successfully you must acquire a good understanding of the "big ideas" of science and maths as well as learning about how to teach.
Structure and Organisation
Trainees will work with the Maths cohort for Maths Education sessions, and will join the Physicists (with core science) for the Science Education sessions. Our current model of working with our science trainees in mixed subject groups will continue, with the Physics with Maths trainees benefitting from the many advantages of such grouping which prepares them well for teaching in schools where practice still dictates that a physicist has to be able to teach across all the sciences, particularly at KS3. In mixed groups the trainees learn from other students, offer peer support and understand the role of their specialism within a broad science education.
The weekly University-based part of the programme is based around our Professional Issues series of sessions which address the Teacher Standards and then students will explore these in a 'Physics with maths' tutor group, working with an experienced tutor and reflecting on the school-based tasks that have been set.
School Based Work
In our partnership schools you will have the opportunity to further develop your own subject understanding and continue to learn about science and maths issues. Work within the school enables you to relate the university components of the course to classroom practice. This is described as "exciting", "rewarding", "hard work" and "stimulating" by our students. You will have a mentor within the school to support you in your work and teach aspects of the course directly relevant to their perspective within the school.
Assessment
Maths and Science Education Issues are assessed within the university through a reflective portfolio of evidence, which draws on both your university and school based experience. The achievement of the standards necessary to be awarded Qualified Teacher Status will be assessed by mentors in school, their judgements moderated by observations carried out by university tutors.
Several members of the science and maths teams contribute to the course, and a tutor who has recent experience in schools will support you throughout.
Our Masters level provision follows our Teaching and Learning Conference and the assignments provide the opportunity for you to link theory and practice.
At who is this course aimed?
You must have a genuine interest in teaching maths and physics and be able to communicate this enthusiastically.
Ideally, your degree will include physics and you must demonstrate a willingness to extend your own subject understanding. You will have an A-level in maths and possibly in other science subjects and you must have GCSEs or equivalent covering all science subjects. This does not exclude candidates who have non-standard qualifications, e.g. access routes into higher education - each application will be judged on its own merits. We may advise applicants of Subject Knowledge Enhancement courses to help prepare them for the course.
We particularly welcome applications from mature candidates who are perhaps looking for a career change. Experience of Information Communication Technology is desirable, and a willingness to further your own skills in this area is essential.