This pioneering, integrated programme responds to the needs of teacher education in the 21st century, and trains student teachers who can teach across both the primary and secondary sectors. This emphasis on cross-phase teaching is in keeping with Welsh Government’s National Mission and the Curriculum for Wales, as well as with the increasing emergence of All-Through schools. The PGCE is a full-time academic and professional programme, broadly comprising university-based provision of approximately 12 weeks, and at least 24 weeks based in school.
Together with your fellow students on the primary and other secondary programmes, you will study the principles of effective pedagogy, assessment, lesson and curriculum planning. You will participate actively in learning, contributing to seminars, delivering presentations and engaging critically with research. During the University sessions, you will plan and deliver micro-lessons in preparation for the practical element of the course. You will study the full range of the primary curriculum with an opportunity to focus on specialist areas and phases in either the Foundation Phase or Upper Primary.
You will be supported in developing your knowledge of those areas outside your degree studies. There will be a focus on the development of learners’ literacy, numeracy and digital competence. Placements will occur in selected Partnership Cluster Hubs where schools will have close links with the University and where trained mentors will be guiding and supporting your development. On placement, you will work closely with your subject mentor and the University Link Tutor to develop your practical skills in teaching.
In addition to specialist placements in primary schools, you will experience a short placement in a secondary school working to develop your understanding of the continuum of children’s learning. You will also undertake an action research project to develop an aspect of your practice and begin your career as a research-informed teacher.
