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PGCE - Postgraduate Certificate of Education
St Mary's University, Twickenham
Full Time
SEP-24
1 year
Select a course option
PGCE - Postgraduate Certificate of Education
St Mary's University, Twickenham
Full time
SEP-24
1 year
Select a an exam type
This Geography PGCE course combines the development of professional skills needed to teach the subject together with knowledge of contemporary issues in geographical education
Strong links with both Geographical Association (GA) and Royal Geographical Society (RGS)
Varied and dynamic fieldwork opportunities including both residential and local visits organised in association with the Field Studies Council
Strong 'Geography Community' developed with local partnership schools, as identified by external examiner in latest subject report
Our Geography PGCE course aims to prepare you with the practical skills needed to help foster the 'geographical imagination' of young people. This is achieved by teaching this vibrant and exciting subject in an innovative way to support pupil learning. In addition, it explores current debates and research to help understand the purpose of teaching geography and support trainees in their school placements.
Through critical reflection the programme makes links with literacy, citizenship and sustainability, highlighting the importance of geography in helping young people to become more informed global citizens. Geography PGCE trainees are assessed on their ability to teach pupils in the 11-16 age range, but opportunities for A Level teaching is also included in the programme as appropriate.
Why St Mary's
The Geography PGCE programme covers all aspects of geography teaching with an emphasis on developing an enquiry approach to learning using fieldwork and GIS (Geographical Information Systems) to support practical activities and strategies for use in the contemporary classroom. Trainees will be encouraged to use a range of techniques and approaches creatively to teach a wide variety of geographical topics.
Key features include an emphasis on developing the professional skills needed to teach geography in the classroom. The programme covers the theoretical knowledge needed as well as the more practical understanding of contemporary issues in geography education to support curriculum planning to ensure effective learning for all students in the 11–16 age range.
The course focuses on a range of pedagogical content knowledge including the development of fieldwork skills which is undertaken in both London and Somerset. The experienced geography tutor works in close partnership with trainees, the PGCE secondary team and the placement schools, with former St Mary's trainees often becoming School Mentors themselves.
Assessment methods
Trainees are recommended for Qualified Teacher Status by successfully meeting the Teachers’ Standards (DfE). Continuous assessment throughout the programme will determine success.
Master's level assignments complement the work in schools and assist in meeting the Teachers’ Standards. These assignments aim to encourage you to be thoughtful and reflective, but also reinforce the evidence-based nature of the course assessment.
Self-assessment is also recognised as a valuable perspective in the evaluation of both school and university-based work.
Career opportunities
The quality of the provision at St Mary’s is valued by our trainees and schools, resulting in high levels of ECT employment in our partnership schools. Employment rates following the PGCE course are frequently over 90% in teaching roles.
On the programme you will study two Master's' modules leading to 60 credits at postgraduate level. You will have the opportunity to further your postgraduate studies in your career as these credits are transferable.
At the end of the PGCE course, you will have the opportunity to complete a three-week placement in a special education setting. This is highly valued by trainee teachers to broaden their understanding of specific learning needs for some learners.
Students are expected to have a good degree in Geography (2:2 or above) or a related subject. GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at level 4 (grade C if taken before 2017) or above or equivalent.
Students living in
Domestic
£9,250 per year
Students from Domestic
This is the fee you pay if the University is in the same country that you live in (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)
£16,500 per year
Students from EU
The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from somewhere in the EU.
£16,500 per year
Students from International
The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from a country outside the EU.
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