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Our PGCE History course combines understanding of the place of history in society and the school curriculum, with pedagogy on all aspects of history teaching.
- This programme is rated 'outstanding' by the government (OFSTED)
- Gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and 60 Master’s degree credits
- The university has partnerships with local schools for trainees to engage in history specific pedagogical and training sessions
- Links with history organisations at local and national level such as Hampton Court Palace, The National Archives and the Holocaust Educational Trust including workshops led by an education officer
- Students will be supported by an experienced course tutor with twenty years of teaching experience who is actively involved in the Historical Association
- Former trainees return to university to deliver seminars in which they share their experiences of their training, their NQT year or on specific areas of history pedagogy
Why study Secondary History?
The History course aims to prepare you with the skills needed to teach this dynamic and exciting subject. In addition, the course explores current debates and research in history education to support you in your school placements. Links are made between history and literacy, history and citizenship and history and media.
Wide use is made of local history and the historic surroundings in South West London, including Strawberry Hill House, which is found on our campus. You are assessed on your ability to teach pupils in the 11-16 age range, but opportunities for A Level teaching are also included in the programme as appropriate.
Why St Mary's?
The programme covers all aspects of history teaching and learning, with an emphasis on an active approach using practical activities and strategies for use in the classroom. Key features include a focus on the use of primary sources and effective planning for the whole ability range to ensure that all pupils are able to make progress.
Our experienced history tutor works in close partnership with you, the PGCE Secondary team and the placement schools.
If you wish to study for the Catholic Certificate of Religious Studies you will be able to complete several of the modules during your PGCE year. This certificate is often a requirement for teaching in a Catholic school.
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
Our PGCE programmes include Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and 60 Master’s degree credits. A large part of the programme is spent in assessed school placements that our School Partnership team will arrange for you, based on your home residential address.
QTS is required to teach in all state-maintained schools in England.
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Upcoming open days and webinars
We'll be running events for you to find out more about Secondary History PGCE on the following dates:
Monday 3rd April 2023, 7pm
PGCE Secondary online Zoom Open Evening registration
Wednesday 19th April 2023, 7pm
PGCE Secondary online Zoom Open Evening - with subject tutors registration
Course lead
Clive Woolger
Senior Lecturer - Secondary PGCE Admissions Tutor