Description

Contents

School-based work During the Autumn term, you observe, participate in and take responsibility for lessons in local schools. A school-based tutor, working in close co-operation with College staff, gives you advice and support; you receive visits from a College-based tutor. You observe experienced teachers at work, and discuss their methods and any difficulties. We ease you into teaching with plenty of support, and you take increasing responsibility for the work of particular classes under the supervision of the regular teacher. There is a 15-hour physics course in a local school for general science students from a biological background, and a short course in biology for chemists and physicists.

College-based work In College, we focus on the ideas and principles underlying teaching. You look at how children learn and develop, and at the role of language in learning. You consider factors to be taken into account when developing lessons which are interesting, balanced and relevant to pupils´ needs. You have opportunities to explore the different ways in which pupils can develop understanding in science, and to become familiar with a variety of resources that can be used to support these. A particular focus is on how to manage pupils´ behaviour using a wide range of techniques; the programme also covers the assessment of pupils´ knowledge and progress.

Prospective science teachers need to be familiar with debates about the nature of science, to allow them to play a full part in decisions about ways in which school science courses should change. The impact of the National Curriculum on what science is taught, and how, is covered in depth. You can expect to cover topics like: school science courses at Key Stages 3 and 4; computing; data logging; safety; how children learn science; assessment; A-levels and Vocational A-levels; and language and science education. We look at techniques for helping slow and fast learners, and give guidance on topics for teaching practice.

Requirements

You should have a degree in any science subject, or a degree in which science is a major component (not less than half of the degree) from a university in the United Kingdom. Psychology is also acceptable provided it has a substantial science component and is backed up by A-level sciences.

As well as British qualifications, we accept many equivalent overseas qualifications: if you would like to know whether your qualifications meet our requirements, please contact the Admissions Office.
You must have GCSE Grade C or above in English Language and Mathematics (or recognised equivalents). Please note that English Language proficiency exams such as TOEFL, IELTS or the Cambridge First or Advanced Certificates are not acceptable.
If you do not have - or are not currently studying for - a GCSE in English or Mathematics, you may be eligible to sit the internal College tests; we advise you to apply early. We regret that these tests may not be used to overlook recent failure in GCSE examinations, and that you can only take the tests once. You cannot take the Goldsmiths English test if you are applying to study English, or the Goldsmiths Mathematics test if you are applying to study Mathematics.

English Language Requirements