| Course length: | 1 year full-time br> |
| Course type: | PGCE Secondary (QTS) |
| Entry requirements: | A good Honours degree (2.2 or above) of which 50% is related to the relevant subject or a recognised equivalent qualification. GCSEs (or equivalent) in English language and mathematics at grade C or above are required before applying.
Candidates must attend an interview and pass literacy and numeracy tests at Newman University College. Recent and relevant work experience in a British state school prior to interview is required. Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) clearance, meeting the requirements for Fitness to Teach and General Teaching Council (GTCE) provisional registration are also required. We do not require a specific amount of time in school, however, the quality and variety of your personal statement is an important factor in the decision whether to call you to interview. br> |
| Qualification: | PGCE |
| Subject Area: | Teacher Training |
| Appy via:: | UCAS br> |
| Course code: | Q3X1 br> |
| Contact(s): | Judith Kneen (Senior Lecturerin Secondary English) Tel: 0121 476 1181 (Ext. 2316) Email: J.Kneen@newman.ac.uk Admissions Tel: 0121 476 1181 (Ext. 2437) Email: admissions@newman.ac.uk |
“The teaching continues to be a strength of the course… Trainees spoke highly of the support they have received.”
External Examiner
This course prepares you to teach English in secondary schools. Providing you with a solid foundation of professional awareness and understanding, it will build and develop your competence and confidence in imparting your subject knowledge to young people.
Building on your English studies at undergraduate level, you will be encouraged to develop effective classroom and teaching skills whilst considering the theories, policies and developments within English teaching.
You will acquire an awareness of the teaching and learning strategies which will help you develop the reading, writing and speaking and listening abilities of pupils across the 11-16 age range. Teaching related areas such as Media and Drama, as well as the post-16 curriculum, will also be explored during the course. You will develop the strategies and expertise necessary to teach an understanding and appreciation of both language and literature which will hopefully stay with pupils throughout their lives.
A particular strength of the course is its focus on effective use of ICT in English, reflecting both Newman’s expertise in this area as well as its importance to the wider community. Whether a novice or a confident user of ICT, you will explore how to use resources such as interactive whiteboards and multimedia programs effectively within English teaching. It’s a feature that not only helps our trainees explore exciting teaching opportunities, but also makes them especially attractive to employers.
PGCE Secondary courses are very popular and can become full very quickly. Candidates are advised to apply as soon as possible after 1st September 2009 for courses starting in 2010.
School Experience
All of our students complete placements in secondary schools – usually in the West Midlands area. You will benefit from Newman’s excellent partnerships with Birmingham schools, providing you with support and encouragement from colleagues in the field.
Teaching Methods and Assessment
Our lecturers and visiting teachers use a variety of teaching methods including lectures, seminars, workshops and special projects. Assessment is through coursework, presentations, project work and practical teaching ability.
Course fees 2010:
£3,290
UK/EU students on this course may qualify for a training salary. Please visit the Training and Development Agency website for further details.

