COURSE CURRICULUM

The PGCE Secondary Humanities program in Geography with Religious Education at the University of Winchester combines academic study with practical classroom experience to prepare students for teaching careers in secondary schools. Core modules such as Teachers and Education, Curriculum Concepts and Contexts, and Pupils, Inclusion and Diversity equip trainees with the theoretical knowledge, pedagogical skills, and understanding of diverse learning needs required for effective teaching. A central component of the program is the school-based professional placement, where students are supported and mentored by experienced teachers. During this placement, trainees become familiar with school and classroom policies, plan and deliver lessons for small groups and whole classes, and focus on explaining content clearly, modelling good practice, and fostering positive learning environments. They progressively take on full-class teaching responsibilities, refining their behaviour management and assessment strategies to ensure inclusive and effective learning. Students engage in continual reflective practice, collecting evidence, evaluating their teaching, and recording their professional development to track progress and identify areas for improvement. ITAP sequences are integrated into the placement, providing structured opportunities to apply theory to practice. By combining guided teaching experience with critical reflection and academic study, the program ensures trainees develop the competence, confidence, and adaptability needed to succeed as skilled secondary school educators.