Welcome to your Primary with PE Specialism course

Welcome to University of Staffordshire

We know you're already passionate about your subject, which is why we're excited you've chosen University of Staffordshire as the place to turn possibility into reality.

To give you an insight into what life as a Primary with PE Specialism student is like, your course leaders have prepared introductions to the course and further activities.

Hello and welcome! We’re looking forward to supporting you through your PGCE year at Staffordshire University. Let’s cover some information that you’ll find useful before starting your adventure with us.    

Course Delivery

Most of these will be PGCE Primary General students but some, like you will have elected to do PGCE Primary with a PE Specialism. Our sessions are mainly in person and will be quite practical. In addition to this you will be offered weekly tutorials with your Lead (university-based) Mentor and will have a school-based mentor to support you in school while you are on placement. In addition to the primary input you will be completing nine extra days of PE input.

Semester One Activities

Throughout your PGCE we will cover all aspects of what you will need to know to be a primary teacher.  Most of your sessions will be subject based but we will also be looking at things like behaviour management, assessment and pedagogy. 

Pre-Learning

The following core texts are recommended reading:

  • Griggs, G. and Randall, V. (Eds) (2022) An Introduction to Primary Physical Education (2nd Ed) (London: Routledge)
  • Hayes, C. et al (2017) Developing as a Reflective Early Years Professional: A Thematic Approach (St Albans, Critical Publishing)
  • Haylock, D. and Manning, R. (2018) Mathematics Explained for Primary Teachers + Student Workbook for 'Mathematics Explained for Primary Teachers (London, SAGE)
  • McGregor, D. and Precious, W. (2014) Dramatic Science: Inspired Ideas for Teaching Science using Drama ages 5–11 (London, Routledge)
  • Roden, J. and Archer, J. (2014) Primary Science for Trainee Teachers (London, SAGE)
  • Sharp, J. et al (2017) Primary Science: Teaching Theory & Practice (London, SAGE)
  • Waugh, D. et al (2017) Primary English for Trainee Teachers (London, SAGE)
  • Webster, M. and Misra, S. (2015) Teaching the Primary Foundation Subjects (London, Open University Press)

Join Us on Social Media

Join our Social Media accounts for the Institute of Education so you can feel a part of the IOE family before you arrive.

You’ll see what we post, links to relevant news articles, developments within the sector, employability support and things going on in our courses.

Following this account will give you the opportunity to do some pre-reading and research before you join the course.

Visit Our Instagram Page

Equipment and Software

Software link: https://staffsuniversity.sharepoint.com/sites/software/SitePages/Home.aspx  

Other Useful Links

Meet the team

Dr Rebecca House

Lecturer

Rebecca is a Lecturer in Physical Education and a PhD Researcher in Sport Sociology. In particular, her main areas of academic interest include inclusion for LGBTQ+ individuals in PE and sport, PE curriculum designs, and alternative activities in PE.

Rebecca's profile

Emma Clayson

Senior Lecturer

I am a senior lecturer within the primary education team. As a qualified teacher, I am passionate about education and in particular, inclusion and support our students to develop their skills in adaptive teaching.

Emma's profile

Sarah Gardiner

Senior Lecturer

Sarah spent the majority of her teaching career in primary schools in central London. Additional to her class teacher responsibilities she also had the role of subject leader for English and has specialised in this area of the curriculum for ove…

Sarah's profile

Mark Barlow

Senior Lecturer

Mark’s most recent work enables him to share his significant experience in developing teachers of the future, focusing on professional development, safeguarding in schools, and simulated learning for trainee teachers.

Mark's profile

What to expect on Welcome Week

We're so excited for you to join us on campus and to welcome you to where you matter. During your welcome week you'll be able to meet our friendly student services teams, connect with new friends, join societies, explore on-campus venues attend club nights and much more.

We look forward to welcoming you to the campus in September.

If you wish to discuss anything in relation to the Physical Education days, please contact Becky House,  rebecca.house@staffs.ac.uk. For all other enquiries about the course, please contact Emma Clayson, emma.clayson@staffs.ac.uk

The Primary PE Course Team

for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Facilities

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Social Inclusion

The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021

of Research is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021

Four Star Rating

QS Star Ratings 2021