The Postgraduate Certificate (PGCE) in Education (Science) at Queen's University Belfast is your pathway to becoming a qualified and confident science teacher for secondary education. This programme is specifically designed for graduates who aspire to teach science across the 11-18+ age range, aligning with the General Teaching Council for Northern Ireland's professional competences. You will develop essential skills in the pedagogy of science, alongside a strong understanding of the general professional role of an educator, preparing you for the dynamic environment of the modern classroom.
This full-time, on-campus PGCE programme is structured to provide extensive practical experience alongside academic tuition. Over one year, you will engage in university-based learning, including subject-specific sessions and independent study, interspersed with two significant school placements in different post-primary settings. You will work closely with experienced teachers and your university subject lecturer, gaining invaluable insights into classroom practice. For science students, there is also an option for an alternative two-week placement with an environmental or outdoor learning provider, offering a unique perspective on science education. You will graduate with the 'Eligibility to Teach' status, ready to embark on your career as a science teacher.