PGCE Primary Education

What you will study

MODULES

Contemporary Issues in Primary Education (Level 7) seeks to enhance trainees’ development as reflective practitioners by providing opportunities to reflect critically and analyse their own development as a teacher and learner. Within this module, elements of educational theory, the impact and importance of reflection and collaboration and the merits of values-led practice are explored. This leads trainees to develop an understanding of how personal and professional knowledge is constructed, advanced, and enhanced through reflection and practice.

The Emergent Teacher as Reflective Practitioner (Level 7) seeks to enhance trainees’ development as reflective practitioners by providing opportunities to reflect critically and analyse their own development as a teacher and learner. Within this module, students can identify an area of enquiry which connects theory, reflection and practice. Identifying and exploring an area of self-selected enquiry will allow students to develop an understanding of how personal and professional knowledge is advanced and enhanced through reflection, engagement with scholarly literature and practice.

A Professional Studies module unites university work with time spent in school developing links between theory and practice. This module aims to support trainees in the achievement of Qualified Teacher Status. This is done by providing trainees with the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to be an effective primary practitioner. Emphasis is given to the cycle of planning, teaching, assessment, and evaluation. The course addresses the importance of the learning environment, behaviour for learning and achievement for all including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities and those from diverse backgrounds.

The Core Curriculum - as English, Mathematics and Science are all core subjects in the National Curriculum it is essential that students build upon their own subject knowledge and understanding in each of these key areas in order to teach these subjects effectively in the primary classroom. Throughout the module, students will have opportunities to develop their understanding of how to use assessment to inform teaching and learning in these three core subjects. Building a Broader Curriculum module which aims to develop trainees’ discrete knowledge, understanding and skills in all foundation subjects. It aims to help trainees explore and experience the inter-linked nature of learning in the primary school. Subjects include art, computing, design and technology, drama, geography, history, modern foreign languages, music, physical education, and Religious Education. Welsh and Curriculum for Wales 2022, for educational practitioners* (*short course).

Additional Module: Welsh and Curriculum for Wales 2022 for Educational Practitioners: The module recognises the importance of Welsh language to Wales and reflects the Welsh Government target of one million Welsh speakers by 2050. It also recognises language as a tool for teaching and learning across the curriculum and the contribution a language can make to children’s development. The importance of cultural input and the opportunities offered by a cross-curricular approach are introduced to make the learning of Welsh more accessible and appealing to students who do not have skills in the language themselves.

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal academic framework review, so may be subject to change.

Entry requirements & applying

Applicants will need a Grade 4 / C in GCSE English, Maths and Science to be considered for the course (equivalency tests are also acceptable and available).

They should also have an undergraduate degree with a minimum classification of 2:2.

You will also need a satisfactory DBS and a good level of physical and mental fitness to teach.

Please be advised that the start date for the Primary PGCE is 31st August 2023.

Teaching & Assessment

Students will get to teach and learn alongside creative, reflective and dynamic practitioners who are passionate about teaching children. The programme encourages you to increase your understanding of teaching and learning processes in order to develop and maintain the high levels of enthusiasm, ability and passion necessary within the teaching profession.

Teaching will take place in interactive sessions. Tutors model good practice in the use of ICT and use lectures, seminars and group activities to stimulate and give you the confidence to be professional teachers.

Assessments are used to ensure that you understand and can apply the knowledge you have gained whilst on the course - both in schools and on campus. This is done through a range of methods:

• Self-assessment
• Audit of Subject Knowledge for Maths, English and Science
• Presentations
• Micro-teaching
• Posters
• Essays
• Practical Sessions

Assessment is ongoing and tracked against the Teachers Standards. High standards of attendance, punctuality and participation are required from all course participants. Assessment will be ongoing while students are on school placements.

Teaching & Learning

Wrexham University is committed to supporting our students to maximise their academic potential. We offer workshops and support sessions in areas such as academic writing, effective note-making and preparing for assignments. Students can book appointments with academic skills tutors dedicated to helping deal with the practicalities of university work. Our student support section has more information on the help available.

Career prospects

Our Careers & Employability service is there to help you make decisions and plan the next steps towards a bright future. From finding work or further study to working out your interests, skills and aspirations, they can provide you with the expert information, advice and guidance you need.

Graduates are very successful in securing teaching appointments at the end of their studies. Many take up employment in one of our partnership schools and go on to inspire and mentor other students.

Fees & funding

You do not have to pay your tuition fees upfront.

The fees you pay and the support available will depend on a number of different factors. Full information can be found on our fees & finance pages. You will also find information about what your fees include in the fee FAQs.

All fees are subject to any changes in government policy, view our postgraduate fees.

Apply Now

• Apply full time (code: 3575)
• Apply part time (code: 3D76)