Secondary with QTS: Physics with Mathematics

Why study with us?

Are you passionate about physics and mathematics? Do you dream of working with young learners to develop their interest in these subjects? Do you feel inspired by the idea of supporting young people in making sense of the world around them? Are you committed and enthusiastic? If so then this is the course for you!

PGCE Secondary Education with QTS: Physics with Mathematics is designed to develop your confidence in both subjects along with your ability to help young learners understand and appreciate the beauty of the subjects. The course gives you the opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals in schools developing your skills in dealing with different groups of learners, in various situations. You will learn to build learners’ confidence in physics and mathematics and show them their applications in life, while enhancing your own appreciation of its power.

Training as a teacher of physics with an additional specialism of mathematics means that you will be well placed to offer flexibility across subject specialisms in secondary schools when you come to seek employment as a teacher at the end of the course.

This course will be based at Perry Beeches School in Birmingham and their partnership schools.

What can this course lead to?

This course can lead to a fulfilling career combining physics and mathematics teaching at secondary school. With qualified teacher status (QTS), you will be able to apply for positions immediately after graduation.

Course Summary

In 2012, PGCE Secondary with QTS: Physics with Mathematics will be based at Perry Beeches School in Birmingham and their partnership schools. This school aims to give the best possible learning experiences and opportunities to staff and student teachers alike. Here you will work with experienced staff tutors and school mentors who will support your training experience. Staff tutors will be responsible for your training and for assessment of your progress towards meeting the standards for qualified teacher status. Your time in school focuses on teaching at Key Stages 3 and 4.

Additionally, you will spend two three-week blocks (in September and January) studying at the University of Cumbria. You will have the opportunity to study the teaching and learning of your subjects at Key Stages 3 and 4, with some work on post-16 mathematics and the progression from primary school to Key Stage 3. You will be supported by university tutors with extensive experience in physics and mathematics education. These university tutors will be responsible for supporting you to meet the PGCE assessment standards.

The University of Cumbria and Perry Beeches are proud to be partners on this exciting and innovative course.

Resources and facilities

Perry Beeches School in Birmingham aims to give the best possible learning experiences and opportunities. Here you will work with experienced school staff who will support your training experience. You will be based in Perry Beeches and their partnership schools for your training.

University of Cumbria is one of the largest providers of teacher training in the UK and as such has excellent facilities and highly commended teaching.

We have several excellent resources to help you excel in your studies. All students have access to our Blackboard Virtual Learning Environment which can provide easy online access to course information, course materials, relevant web links and an online discussion board. In addition to extensive online resources you will be able to access the university's library as well as the resources held at the school.

You will be able to access the Learning, Information and Student Services (LISS), which provides learning resources, equipment, student advice and skills training.

Entry requirements

See course specific entry requirements listed below.

More about levels and credit

Selection criteria

Usually a 2:2 honours degree with a minimum of 50% related to physics and/or mathematics.
If you do not currently have sufficient physics/mathematics related content then we may be able to recommend Subject Knowledge Enhancement courses.
GCSE grade C or above in English Language and Mathematics or equivalent qualifications.
We strongly recommend that you obtain a minimum of 2-3 days secondary school experience in a mainstream UK secondary school observing a class in your chosen teaching specialism before applying. You must be able to demonstrate an understanding of the current nature of teaching and learning in relation to school mathematics.
A satisfactory academic (university) reference OR a satisfactory professional reference if more than three years since academic study.
All candidates must demonstrate professional suitability through interview and must obtain medical and enhanced CRB clearance according to established university procedures.
More detailed information and advice is available on our how to apply page.