Teacher Training: Science (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) PGCE & GTP

Why train to teach Science at Nottingham?

In collaboration with experienced teachers from our partnership schools we have designed our PGCE and GTP Science (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) courses to support you and allow you to consider the everyday reality of teaching science. At the same time you will be able to explore the challenges and issues underpinning contemporary science education.

 

Outstanding Ofsted results

"The overall effectiveness of the University of Nottingham in securing high quality outcomes for trainees is outstanding."

Ofsted 2010

What will you learn?

To be an effective teacher, we will help you to develop your understanding and skills in three main areas:

• How to teach: you will learn a range of teaching strategies and skills, including lesson planning, effective management, assessment, questioning, explaining and the effective use of ICT;
• What to teach:  you will consider the important questions such as 'What is science?' 'What sort of science should pupils learn?' and 'What does the science curriculum look like?'
• What being a professional involves:  you will gain insights into the complexities of teaching and learning and how to critically reflect on your own and others' practice, in order to ensure your own professional development.

How are our PGCE and GTP courses structured?

Teaching takes place in a variety of different contexts, including:

• Use of the internet, including engagement through a virtual learning environment;
• Seminars, including laboratory sessions where you plan and execute practical work commonly done in school;
• School placements where you put into practice your developing skills and understandings.

How will we support you to meet your needs?

A real strength of the science course is the quality of support you get from various sources:

• Your Science Tutor – you will receive one-to-one support throughout the course from an experienced science educator.
• Your school mentor – on each school placement you will have your own mentor. 
• An experienced teacher who will support and encourage you.
• Your colleagues – you will be encouraged to work collaboratively with other students on the programme.