PGCE Secondary Mathematics with QTS (11-16) course preparation
We’re looking forward to welcoming you onto your PGCE Secondary Mathematics with QTS degree programme. Educating young adults and being able to inspire them to share your passion for a particular subject is one of the main reasons why people choose to train as a Secondary teacher. Imagination is crucial, as is the need for patience and the ability to develop and sustain excellent relationships with pupils, communicating clearly with them and breaking down complicated concepts into manageable building blocks for learning.
We’ll support you as you develop your academic, professional and vocational knowledge, understanding, skills and the values necessary to become a high quality and effective teacher of Mathematics. Throughout your studies you’ll gain reflective and analytical skills. And get practical experience in planning effective lessons, helping pupils to learn, and effective teaching and learning strategies.
Before your studies begin, please read the information below and complete any of the tasks required.
Student Allocation Profile Survey
The survey helps the Partnership Development Team (PDT) find an appropriate professional practice placement (PPP) for you. This is done by taking as many relevant details of your personal situation into account as possible.
If you’ve got strong links to a school where you’d like to undertake a PPP please let us know. You can do this by completing our Professional Practice Allocation Form (PPAF). We’re always happy to consider these schools and have a set process in place to do so.
Suggested texts
You will be given lots of information about which textbooks to read and introduced to the University Library, as well as the many ebooks we have for you to access, when you begin your studies. In the meantime, you might like to begin some academic reading before starting your degree. We don’t recommend rushing out to buy texts before you arrive but if you can pick some up second hand, borrow from a library or access online to read over the summer, here are some suggested texts below:
- DfE, (2020) ITT Core Content Framework [online]
- Mr Barton Maths
- Barton, C. (2018) How I Wish I’d Taught Maths. Woodbridge: Catt.
- Chambers, P. and Timlin, R. (2013) Teaching Mathematics in the Secondary School (2nd Edition). London: Sage.
- National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics
- Southall, E (2017) Yes, by why? Teaching for Understanding in Mathematics. London: Sage
Academic preparation
Now is a good time to develop your knowledge further which will prepare you for the specific requirements of your course.
- Keep up-to-date. Try to ensure you engage with any reading on recent issues in education and mathematics.
- Check GCSE content. It would be helpful for you to revisit the mathematical content at GCSE via the examination board’s website. You can find an example from AQA on their website.