Secondary Geography Birmingham City University

Overview

Do you believe that Geography is essential for helping young people comprehend and contribute positively to our planet? If you're passionate about making the physical and human aspects of Geography engaging for your students, the PGCE Secondary Geography course at Birmingham City University is your gateway to becoming an inspiring educator.

This course is designed for individuals eager to introduce students to the diverse world of Geography, encompassing physical, human, and environmental dimensions. You will learn to teach students aged 11-16, with the option to enhance your skills for post-16 education. Our programme aims to develop confident, dynamic, and creative educators who can effectively foster Geographical thinking among their pupils.

Throughout the course, you’ll delve into various pedagogical approaches to make the Geography curriculum inclusive and stimulating. You will learn how to plan engaging Geographical activities that promote critical thinking and self-confidence in your students. Our curriculum emphasises the importance of understanding how pupils learn, allowing you to tailor your teaching methods to their needs.

A distinctive feature of this course is its emphasis on fieldwork, where you will gain practical experience in planning local urban and rural Geography excursions. The Intensive Training and Practice (ITAP) component strengthens the connection between theoretical knowledge and classroom practice, enabling you to apply evidence-based teaching strategies effectively.

The course is closely linked with key subject associations, such as the Royal Geographical Society and the Geographical Association, ensuring that your training is aligned with current educational standards and practices. You will benefit from a curriculum designed by research-active subject experts, integrating university-based learning with practical school experience.

As a testament to our commitment to quality education, a survey of our 2021/22 Secondary Teaching graduates revealed that nearly 100 schools in the West Midlands employed our alumni as Early Career Teachers. Our extensive partnerships with schools across the region provide you with diverse training opportunities, preparing you for various educational settings upon graduation.

The course requires a minimum of 120 days of school placements, ensuring that you gain substantial practical experience. You will work closely with experienced mentors who will guide your development and provide valuable feedback on your teaching practice. This hands-on approach is vital for cultivating the skills necessary for a successful teaching career.

Students can also earn Master's level credits during this course, which can contribute towards a full Master's degree in the future. Financial support options are available to assist you during your studies, further enhancing your educational journey. For more information on funding opportunities, please visit the Department for Education's Get Into Teaching website.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

The tuition fees for the PGCE Secondary Geography course are as follows:

• National Students: £9,535 per year
• International Students: £17,690 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum for the PGCE Secondary Geography course includes the following core modules:

• Secondary Professional Studies (20 credits): This module focuses on understanding professionalism within the educational context.
• Secondary Subject Pedagogy: Geography (20 credits): This module explores effective teaching strategies for Geography.
• Professional Enquiry (20 credits): This module introduces evidence-based enquiry skills for personal development.
• School Experience 1 (0 credits): Practical experience in a school setting to meet professional standards.
• School Experience 2 (0 credits): Further practical experience to enhance teaching skills.

This PGCE course is intensive and demanding, preparing you for a fulfilling career in teaching. It combines workshops, lectures, and individual study, focusing on educational theory, pedagogy, and professional practice. The curriculum is aligned with the ITT Core Content Framework and the national Teachers’ Standards, ensuring you are well-prepared for your teaching career.