Geography is a dynamic and challenging subject that has been the focus of much curricular change in schools in recent years. Our PGCE course will prepare you to teach Geography to the full secondary age and ability range. The course includes:

• study of National Curriculum development and course requirements
• gaining experience of working with and alongside teachers in Geography departments
• theoretical study and analysis of classroom practice
• learning and critiquing a wide range of approaches to teaching and learning in Geography
• access to the latest in teaching and learning resources
• study of GCSE and post-16 Geography and associated exam specifications
• first hand experience of local and residential fieldwork
• your development as a reflective practitioner and enthusiastic teacher
• the role and use of ICT in supporting Geography teaching and learning

The course is schools-based utilising the expertise of local teachers whilst University sessions meet the professional and academic needs of students as their experience develops during the year.

Among the Geography sessions you will experience:

• active learning through workshops, seminars and student presentations
• enquiry approaches to Geography teaching and learning
• the expertise of visiting local teachers and specialists
• analysis of classroom management, organisation and teaching styles
• strategies to develop pupils’ thinking skills
• strategies to help meet the needs of all pupils learning Geography
• individual tutorials to prepare for and reflect on school placements and to aid student progression
• residential and local fieldwork
• critical examination of visual aids, video, maps, text and other teaching resources
• the use of Information and Communications Technology in the Geography classroom

The course is designed to prepare student teachers for the rigours of classroom teaching and continuous professional development, based on a philosophy of enquiry-based learning. Student teachers are asked to underpin their notion of good practice by developing a good theoretical understanding. Texts, journals and ICT programmes are recommended to support this development.

Student teachers’ evaluations and assessments from recent inspections recognise the successful (and enjoyable) contributions made by the Canterbury Christ Church team to the preparation of tomorrow’s teachers of Geography.

How to Apply

Applications for the full-time PGCE 7-14 and 11-18 are made electronically via the Graduate Teacher Training Registry (GTTR) www.gttr.ac.uk

There is no general closing date, but each programme or subject pathway is closed when it becomes fully subscribed. Early application is strongly advised, both because some subject programmes fill quickly, and because it will help you to plan for your PGCE course if you can get early confirmation of a place.

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> Faculty of Education website