Secondary Biology Subject Booster
Develop subject knowledge in biology and prepare to teach the subject effectively to learners aged 11-16 on this flexible free enhancement course for those with the offer a place on our PGCE in Secondary Science (Biology).
Overview
Course length: | 8-16 weeks full-time |
---|---|
Start dates: | April 2025 |
Location: | Edge Hill University and Online study |
Subject(s): | Education and Teaching |
Faculty: | Education |
Department: | Secondary and Further Education |
This course is for you if you have applied to study on the PGCE Secondary Science (Biology) with QTS (11-16) at Edge Hill University and your admissions tutor has determined that you require enhancement of your subject knowledge.
The aim of the course is to develop your subject knowledge in biology to prepare you to teach the conceptual and applied aspects of the subject effectively, with competence, enthusiasm and confidence, to learners aged 11-16 years. Trainees will be encouraged to prepare for teaching A Level topics where appropriate.
Different course lengths are available and the most suitable structure for you will depend on whether you studied a degree in a science discipline or a non-science subject. The course structure and length will be flexible to reflect the needs of each individual trainee
What you'll study
If your degree contains less than 50% biological science, or if your degree is in an alternative science discipline, and you wish to train as a biology teacher, then this course will be suitable for you prior to a Secondary Science (Biology) PGCE. It is designed for applicants without a breadth and depth of Biology study in their degree who may need to improve their subject knowledge as a condition of entry to the PGCE. The actual length of the course depends on your qualifications and experience and will be discussed as part of the interview process.
The course is designed to address subject knowledge gaps in/around:
- Biological molecules
- Cells
- Organisms exchanging substances with their environment
- Genetic information, variation and taxonomy
- Energy transfer in ecosystems
- Organisms response to stimuli
- Genes, populations, ecosystems
- Gene expression
How you'll study
The course structure and length will be flexible to reflect your individual needs. The course is divided into individual units, each requiring 50 hours of learning time, normally within a space of two weeks. This learning will be a blend of face-to-face sessions, online learning, and supported self-study, with one day every fortnight on campus.
How you'll be assessed
There are no formal examinations. You will build a portfolio from directed activities.
Entry criteria
Entry requirements
You may apply for the course if you have been offered a place on the PGCE Secondary Science (Biology) with QTS (11-16) at Edge Hill University.
Completion of this booster course may form part of your offer conditions for a place on the PGCE Secondary Science (Biology) with QTS (11-16). Please note, however, that completion of this course does not necessarily qualify you for a place on the PGCE.
How to apply
Applications are currently closed for this course.
Should you accept an offer of a place to study with us and formally enrol as a student, you will be subject to the provisions of the regulations, rules, codes, conditions and policies which apply to our students. These are available at www.edgehill.ac.uk/studentterms.
There’s plenty of opportunities to come take a look around campus. Attend one of our open days to see what life at Edge Hill University is all about.
Book an open dayFacilities
The Faculty of Education enjoys the enviable position of being one of the country’s leading providers of transformative education, training and research for the teaching and education workforce. Housed in a state-of-the-art £9m building, the Faculty of Education enjoys a stunning setting from both its lakeside and piazza buildings.
Facilities in the lakeside building include a 300-seat lecture theatre, five well-equipped ICT suites, and 18 teaching rooms complete with the latest technology.
Our nearby piazza building houses our Research Hub and our Secondary and Further Education department including a lecture theatre and a number of seminar rooms.
Where you'll study
Faculty of Education
Finance
Tuition fees
UK Full-Time
Free of charge
for the course