PGCE Secondary Education: Mathematics

Entry requirements

You will have to possess a real interest and aptitude for mathematics and an ability to think creatively about presenting the subject to pupils. Trainee mathematics teachers will be expected to teach topics across the attainment range, with additional opportunities available such as teaching or observing post-16 mathematics, or involvement with specialist SEN mathematics teaching. Above all, you will need to be able to form strong relationships with learners and professionals, and develop resilience when under pressure. Also you will need:

• To have achieved a standard equivalent to a grade 4 (previously Grade C) in the GCSE examinations in English and Mathematics.
• To hold a first degree of a United Kingdom higher education institution or equivalent qualification.
• To have taken part in a rigorous selection process designed to assess your readiness to train to teach, which will include as a minimum both an interview and audit of your subject knowledge.
• To have taken and passed the professional skills tests prior to entry.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Our Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Secondary Education provides a high standard of training for those preparing to take up a teaching post in the secondary school sector. The course complies with the statutory guidance from the Department for Education for Initial Teacher Training courses.

The PGCE in Secondary Education is specifically designed to ensure that those who are successful will be recommended for the award of Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) - the professional award required by all those who wish to teach in a maintained school.

Mathematics is an exciting secondary school curriculum subject. The subject covers topics such as number, algebra, shape and data. Additionally the new examinations require mathematics teachers to be skilled at teaching deciphering text (worded questions) and promoting mathematical mastery and fluency. As a trainee you will learn how to teach mathematics to pupils in the 11-16 age range within the secondary age phase, with additional primary and post-16 enhancements. You will learn how to develop skills, knowledge and understanding for teaching mathematics through a combination of university-led and school-led training.

Successful completion of the course will lead to recommendation for the award of Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), along with 60 credits at Master’s level.