Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), Secondary PGCE 
Tutor: Mrs Debbie Redshaw
Duration: Full-time 10 months
Requirements: Except in exceptional circumstances, you should hold, or expect to achieve at least a 2.2 honours degree, with at least 50% of the content in the science specialism you will teach at A level. Most engineering degrees and joint honours degrees are usually acceptable, but if in doubt contact us for further guidance. Subject knowledge enhancement courses are available in physics and chemistry at various venues around the country for candidates who do not fully meet the 50% criterion but who do meet all other requirements. In addition to the above, you should normally have studied at least two science subjects to A level standard or the equivalent, and you should hold GCSE or O level passes (grades A*–C) in English language and mathematics or their equivalent.
School experience: Some recent experience in a secondary school is required by the time of interview
Course Aims
The National Curriculum provides a broad and balanced science education, incorporating aspects of biology, chemistry and physics, as well as earth science and astronomy, for all children up to age 16. Emphasis is placed on the social and economic implications of science as well as the important technological applications. Open-ended investigations of scientific phenomena are encouraged as opposed to the 'recipe' approach of experiments confirming text book theory.
Teachers are therefore required who not only have an in-depth knowledge of their science specialism, but also have an active interest in these wider issues, and it is against this background that the PGCE has been developed.
If you think that you have the enthusiasm, stamina and commitment required to stimulate young people's interest in the sciences, we would be delighted to hear from you !
Coursework
More than two thirds of your training will take place in local schools, giving ample opportunity for hands-on experience, but it is also informed by recent research findings, Newcastle University has an international reputation for the quality of its research in education.
In laboratory-based workshops you will focus on the practical aspects of the teaching of your science specialism for children of a wide range of abilities and ages (including A level). In seminar and tutorial groups you will examine a number of wider issues of concern to all science teachers such as:
- safety in laboratories
- the development of children's understanding in science
- and the teaching of controversial issues, such as nuclear power and AIDS.
There will also be opportunities for you to update your subject knowledge in areas of the National Curriculum in which you feel less secure, to explore the links between the teaching of science and technology, and to participate in fieldwork with children from local schools.
Our students typically come from a very wide range of backgrounds. Some have experience of business and industry and are making a career change while others have been involved in fundamental scientific research and are looking for a more ‘person-oriented’ vocation away from the isolation of the laboratory bench.
Many are recent graduates from a whole variety of disciplines in science and engineering from universities throughout the UK attracted to Newcastle as a thriving student city. All very quickly feel at home here and many stay on in teaching posts in the area after gaining their PGCE.
The course received a full inspection from the Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted) in 1999-2000 and was rated as “Good” in all aspects. These grades were confirmed in further short inspections carried out in 2004 and 2008.
The course is demanding but like teaching itself, continually provides you with fresh insights into human behaviour and is widely regarded by students as a rewarding and enjoyable experience.
Entry Requirements
Except in exceptional circumstances, you should hold, or expect to achieve at least a 2.2 honours degree, with at least 50% of the content in the science specialism you will teach at A level. Most engineering degrees and joint honours degrees are usually acceptable, but if in doubt contact us for further guidance.
Subject knowledge enhancement courses are available in physics and chemistry at various venues around the country for candidates who do not fully meet the 50% criterion but who do meet all other requirements. There are no fees and a training grant is available. See the TDA website for further details.
In addition to the above, you should normally have studied at least two science subjects to A level standard or the equivalent, and you should hold GCSE or O level passes (grades A*–C) in English language and mathematics or their equivalent. Finally, you must reside within 20 miles of the University during the course. Your application will be looked on more favourably if you have recently visited a comprehensive school science department and discussed the realities of the job with practising science teachers. Your experiences and impressions will be discussed at interview.
PGCE Enquiries:
Tel: 0191 222 6581
Fax: 0191 222 6546
E-mail: pgce-education@ncl.ac.uk