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This programme is designed to provide a route into one of the most rewarding and dynamic careers in teaching that there is, providing you with the tools to make the study of language stimulating for the full range of learners.

This PGCE course comes with the choice of taking a French, German or Spanish pathway.

We seek to encourage an interactive teaching approach that builds confidence, develops understanding of how the language system works and leads to purposeful language use. You will be working with young people from a wide range of backgrounds, aptitudes and needs. This is challenging as well as exciting, so we offer a gradual and supportive introduction to the classroom.

In the College-based element, you will be given the opportunity to explore what constitutes ‘good practice’, and spend time in subject-specific groups looking at issues and resources particular to their languages. We encourage students to develop a second or third teaching language and we build in opportunities for you to teach each other.

Providing meaningful contexts for language learning is vitally important and we place emphasis on culture and creativity (use of stories, songs, drama, multimedia and art works) as well as on cross-curricular projects. We also devote attention to learner strategies that enable pupils to become more fully involved in the process of their own learning.

Motivation is a key aspect in teaching a language and we explore how we can develop engaging content and teaching strategies. We consider the growing number of alternative courses for language accreditation and the development of the 14-19 Diploma in Languages.

The introduction of language teaching in all primary schools is an exciting development. Working with our Primary PGCE colleagues we look at the implications of this in terms of policy and pedagogy. This focus is seen as particularly valuable by students and one that enriches the course.

It is also possible to study this course via our School Direct programme. Please visit our School Direct page to see which schools offer this subject.

As well as your PGCE fees, you will have to cover your travel costs to your school placements. We produce reading packs electronically and in hard copy format. There’s a small charge for the hard copy reading packs. You may also be asked to contribute towards trips and some materials for your modules.

If you have specific questions about the degree, contact Marian Carty