PGCE Primary English
This specialism considers how English is taught in primary schools. English is not only a core National Curriculum subject but it is also a medium for learning in all subjects whether that be through reading, writing, speaking or listening. At the same time the current Primary National Strategy puts a strong emphasis on the teaching of literacy through the Literacy Hour.
The course will prepare you to use exciting approaches and resources to interest and motivate children as you teach across the curriculum. This will include ways of using poetry, drama, story and children's literature. The programme is taught mainly through seminars and workshops with a significant element of directed collaborative group work and self-study.
Duration
38 weeks. (One academic year)
Entry Requirements
For the Primary PGCE English specialism we are looking for graduates with a 2:1 or above in their first degree. We expect to take students with at least A Level English, preferably degree level. Students without A level English can apply if they can show relevant experience in language/literacy fields, e.g. teaching TEFL. We prefer to interview candidates with prior experience of working with children and an ability to talk about how children learn.
Passes at GCSE in English, Mathematics and Science at Grade C. Please note that although the TDA requirement is a grade C, we will generally only consider applicants with a grade B or above in Mathematics and English and a grade C in Science.
Academic Staff
Anthony Wilson has worked in Initial Teacher Training for a number of years at Exeter having worked as a Primary teacher in London. A published poet, he has worked as a writer in schools since 1991 and is a trainer for the Poetry Society's poetryclass scheme. He has had an association with Tate Britain since 1996 encouraging children and teachers to develop their visual literacy through writing. His research interests include the teaching of poetry, children’s writing and creative approaches to literacy teaching.
What are the aims of this programme?
This course is planned to allow you to engage in a range of individual and group, independent and taught activities which will contribute to developing the knowledge, understanding, attitudes and teaching strategies that you will need to become an effective teacher of English. As graduate students you already have a wide experience as users of language and as learners. We aim to help you draw on this experience and to build on it by making your implicit knowledge explicit and developing your understanding of how language works. We aim to cater for all students' needs and to offer equal opportunities. In addition students with specific needs will be provided with resources to support their learning in sessions or lectures. Should you need particular support please contact your tutor as early as possible in the course.
How am I assessed?
Through University and school-based assignments. There are no formal exams. Students are also required to pass the Government's numeracy, literacy and ICT (Information and Communications Technology) tests.
Module Information
Current modules:
- Primary Foundation Curriculum Studies (EFS3000)
- Primary Educational & Professional Studies (EPS3000)
- Primary School-Based Work (ESB3003)
- Primary Core Curriculum Studies (ECSM001)
- Primary English Specialism (EEDM009)
Current Student Locations
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