Study our PGCE Primary with a specialism in Physical Education (PE) for a deeper understanding of teaching and learning within primary PE.
This teacher training course is for primary practitioners with an additional focus on PE. All areas of the national curriculum are covered. Trainees do the same assignments as the full-time (FT) cohort but have fewer taught foundation subject sessions and more PE. They have the same core subjects, professional studies and master’s sessions. They will be expected to teach in both KS1 and KS2 and will be assessed on their ability to teach primary subjects, not just PE. It is not a course for people who just want to teach PE.
The course content is closely aligned to the content of the other Primary PGCE courses, but the this degree is specifically designed to address the directive from the UK Government about improving the quality of training and teaching of PE in primary schools.
The PGCE degree differs in the allocation of hours for the foundation subjects, in that more time is offered to PE and fewer to the others. The aim is to develop confident and competent primary school teachers who have had more training within PE. It is not a course that delivers PE specialists, but it does support those who wish to eventually move into PE leadership roles once qualified.
Students will learn how to develop more meaningful and positive learning experiences beyond the stereotypical and dominant physical domains. You do not need to have high levels of sporting ability to join this course, nor do you have to have had a positive learning experience within PE, sport or physical activity to date, but you do need to understand the value of PE and all it can bring to the lives of the children you will teach.
The programme runs over three school terms from September to July, with taught sessions five days a week. The programme structure incorporates a balance of learning experiences through a mixture of University, school and educational settings which will support you on your learning journey.
Teaching and learning is presented and assessed through a variety of formats including essays, a portfolio of evidence, audits and visual presentations. Modules for Master's support your development across all areas.
Course content
Much of the course content mirrors the Primary Generalist programme and students should refer to this.
The PE module will develop the necessary skills and understanding within primary PE and primary education to become a subject leader within PE. The learning will highlight key aspects such as high quality teaching, inclusive practice and sports specific courses.
You will also engage with relevant research literature and develop the skills of a reflective practitioner in the Master’s modules. A PE focus will form a major part of your Master's module, however, learning and experience is shared throughout the programme as all modules work in cooperation to allow for a deeper understanding of teaching and learning.
Entry requirements
Course entry requirements are the same as the Primary Generalist programme and students should refer to this.