COURSE CURRICULUM

The PGCE Secondary School Led program combines academic study with extensive school-based experience to prepare trainees for a career in secondary education while leading directly within a school environment. Core modules include Teachers and Education, Curriculum Concepts and Contexts, and Pupil, Inclusion and Diversity, which provide essential knowledge of pedagogy, curriculum planning, and strategies to support diverse learners. The central focus of the program is the professional placement, where trainees are supported and guided by an experienced teacher mentor. During placement, students become familiar with school policies, plan and teach lessons to small groups and full classes, and develop effective teaching strategies that emphasize explanation, modelling, and the establishment of positive learning environments. Trainees progressively take on full class teaching responsibilities while refining behaviour management and assessment approaches, ensuring they can respond effectively to different classroom situations. Reflective practice is a key element throughout the placement, encouraging students to collect evidence, evaluate their teaching, and record personal and professional development. ITAP sequences are also integrated into the placement experience, allowing trainees to practice planning, teaching, and assessment cycles systematically. By combining theory with immersive practical experience, the program equips future educators with the confidence, adaptability, and professional skills necessary to make a meaningful impact on students’ learning and development in secondary schools.