PGCE/CertEd in Education (Lifelong Learning Sector)

PGCE/CertEd in Education (Lifelong Learning Sector)

Course ID:
PC00181

Academy:
Business

Introduction:
This course is run in partnership with Edge Hill University. You may already be teaching or training in the post-compulsory or lifelong learning sector and as such you realise the importance of constantly developing your skills. On the other hand, you may be looking for a first career in education or training or a career change that will allow you to build on your professional experience.

Study Mode & Location:
2 years. Part-time. 4 hours per week 5 - 9 pm.

Course Content:
The course has six modules which give you a range of skills and knowledge from preparing for teaching, learning and assessment to subject specific teaching and learning. They also provide an opportunity for an award to be achieved at Level 7 subject to achievement in the initial level 6 modules. Therefore there is a Postgraduate Certificate in Education available to trainees who achieve 60 credits at Level 6 and 60 credits at level 7.

Having established some essential knowledge and skills to determine your professional practice in the classroom, the subsequent modules cover broader topics such as evaluating the learner experience and curriculum design. An investigation into current issues in Post-compulsory Education and Training that are most relevant to each individual student`s setting is also undertaken.

Assessment:
Assessment is through coursework and observations of teaching and training.

The assessment strategies are varied but do have significant focus on developing knowledge and skills that will be useful in the classroom or workshop, rather than `academic` essays. To this end, several modules are assessed through portfolios of evidence drawn from the trainee`s practice and thus encourage the development of innovation in teaching and learning activities.

During the programme each trainee will be observed eight times. These observations will be shared between tutors and work-based mentors. This approach offers the trainee feedback not only on generic aspects of teaching but also the teaching of their subject specialism.

Careers & Progression Opportunities:
A recognised teaching qualification is essential to confirm the original appointment. Without such a qualification, promotion and progress is unlikely and job tenure may not be guaranteed.

For those candidates who may be experienced, and even qualified, within their professional sector, e.g. police and NHS trainers, undertaking a nationally recognised qualification will provide wider employment opportunities than would be available with a training qualification only recognised within one sector of lifelong learning.

Requirement
To join this PGCE you should have an honours degree (2:2) in an appropriate subject, that is, a subject clearly part of the post-compulsory curriculum. Exceptions to this can be made and individual circumstances will be taken into account. For applicants with a degree in a subject not related to the post-compulsory curriculum, other suitable level 3 qualifications may be considered. In line with LLUK guidance it is desirable for candidates to have GCSE English and GCSE Mathematics at grade C or above. For candidates who have not achieved these qualifications, then equivalency will be sought. This could be National Key Skills Test in Communication or Numeracy or other appropriate qualifications that can demonstrate the breadth of achievement against National Qualifications Framework (NQF) level 2. To join the Certificate in HE (post compulsory) you should have a recognised professional qualification at a minimum of Level 3 (NQF) e.g. BTEC National, City and Guilds Advanced, NVQ 3 or equivalent. (If no professional qualification is held, a portfolio of evidence of professional practice can be considered). Plus GCSE in Mathematics and English Language at grade C or equivalent preferred.