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| Programme title: | Chemistry Subject Knowledge Enhancement Course |
| Apply: | direct to the University |
| Start (ft): | January |
| Mode: | full-time |
| Duration: | 20 weeks |
| Location: | Bedford campus, Polhill Avenue |
| Faculty: | Faculty of Education, Sport & Tourism |
| Department: | Department of Secondary & Post-Compulsory Education |
The chemistry subject knowledge enhancement course is aimed at candidates who want to train as teachers of chemistry but do not have sufficient knowledge and understanding of chemistry to allow them to teach the subject confidently. For example, candidates may have a science degree with only some relevance to chemistry or have used chemistry in their workplace.
The course runs for 20 weeks from January to June and consists of 12 hours in university and 13 hours independent study per week. On successful completion of this course, participants will follow their chosen programme of Initial Teacher Training either at the University of Bedfordshire or elsewhere.
A broad base of fundamental chemistry concepts will be covered with particular emphasis on the relevance to real life experiences to generate interest and excitement. Where appropriate, links to areas of physics and biology will be explored to develop the depth of understanding necessary to teach effectively across the chemistry curriculum at Key stage 4.
Teaching on the course will include a variety of approaches including individual, pair and group work, practical and ICT based activities to promote enjoyment and enthusiasm for chemistry and chemistry teaching.
Participants on the chemistry subject knowledge enhancement course are eligible to receive a TDA training bursary of £200 per week* which is linked to your intention to take up an initial teacher training place, following successful completion of the enhancement. You do not pay course fees.
*January 2011 entry.
Offers the opportunity to enter science with chemistry initial teacher training programmes
You may be eligible for a tax-free bursary
There are no fees to pay
Our Faculty of Education is one of the largest providers of Initial Teacher Training in the UK. We boast an impressive record for training teachers.
Teaching will include a range of approaches with the intention of modelling good practice and promoting enjoyment and enthusiasm for chemistry with opportunities for working independently and collaboratively.
Students complete six assignments which are presented in a variety of formats. There are no formal examinations.
The following areas of study may be included:
Atomic structure and bonding
Periodicity, metals and non metals
Acids, bases and salts
Chemical kinetics and energetics
Organic chemistry and spectroscopy
Wherever possible laboratory work and the appropriate use of ICT will be incorporated into the teaching schedule.
It is expected that by the end of the course students will have secure knowledge and understanding of Key Stage 3, Key Stage 4 and some aspects of core Advanced Level chemistry and be committed to teaching chemistry as their specialist science.
All applicants must have a confirmed offer of a place on a PGCE , GTP or SCITT programme with a recognised provider in England of initial teacher training, by the time the subject knowledge enhancement course starts in January 2012.
For those applying to the University of Bedfordshire PGCE Secondary Science with Chemistry
Applications are made through the Graduate Teacher Training Agency (GTTR) online at www.gttr.ac.uk using the course code F2X1 for Secondary Science with Chemistry or call GTTR for an application pack on 0870 1122200
Candidates must possess:
A good honours degree in a science based subject.
GCSE grade C (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics in place at the time of application.
Recent and relevant experience of working with children, preferably in a mainstream school, is desirable.
All suitable applicants for PGCE will be interviewed and will undergo a check by the Criminal Records Bureau.
The Faculty actively encourages applications from mature students or those thinking of returning to education.
We welcome applications from international students.
Students whose first language is not English and who do not have GCSE grade C in English need to hold IELTS with an average score of 6.
Applications to the chemistry subject knowledge enhancement course should be made direct to the University. You do not have to wait to apply to us until you have a confirmed ITT place but we cannot offer a confirmed place on the subject knowledge enhancement course until you have confirmation of a place on a PGCE or GTP programme.
For further information and an application form you should contact:
Student Recruitment and Admissions
University of Bedfordshire
Polhill Avenue
Bedford
MK41 9EA
E: admission@beds.ac.uk
T: +44 (0)1234 793279
F: +44 (0)1234 793277
