Science is everywhere in our lives. It’s also helped humans achieve more than we ever thought possible – from walking on the moon to conquering disease.
That journey starts with science education, where pupils develop their curiosity and explore the world around them. Our Secondary Biology PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) will equip you with strategies to become a confident and successful science teacher across KS3 and KS4.
You’ll look at how to help pupils understand the bigger biological picture. It will include developing their knowledge of humans, animals and plants, along with the interaction between humanity and the planet.
Although you will specialise in biology, the training also covers chemistry and physics. It means you can become a fully rounded science teacher.
You’ll spend time in local schools, plan engaging lessons, cover behaviour management techniques and discover how pupils learn. On campus, we’ll help you reflect on your teaching from a subject-specific perspective and give you one-to-one support.
But you’ll get far more than just a teacher training qualification with us. As part of our Institute of Education, you’ll have access to the latest research on what works in the classroom and other evidence-based approaches.
On the PGCE, you can see practical sessions in action at our £30m Science Centre.
And there will be plenty of hands-on experience on placement too.
From getting the most out of your induction to tips on teaching your first lesson, your personal tutor will be there to support you every step of the way. We have also developed a close partnership with school-based mentors for your placements.
And you’ll be able to draw on a wide range of other expertise, including science experts at a local college and the North Midlands Science Learning Partnership.
After you pass your PGCE, you will be recommended for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). But the support doesn’t stop there - we’ll even offer you a mock interview in a school to prepare you for job applications.
On successful completion of study, we will issue the following award: PGCE Secondary Biology
Work placements
At the University of Staffordshire, we have partner schools in the Midlands and North West. As well as close links with those in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire and Cheshire, we work with schools in Derbyshire, Shropshire and Birmingham.
Where possible, travel time will be kept to 60 minutes, however this may increase to accommodate rural locations or public transport restrictions.