PGCE Secondary Design Technology: The University of Manchester

Course description

The programme combines academic study of D&T education with a range of practical experiences in schools and in the University.

The PGCE Secondary Design and Technology course consists of a variety of learning experiences designed for those wishing to train as teachers. The majority of the course focuses upon practical training in teaching and learning related skills. This practical training is underpinned by the development of participants knowledge and understanding of education theories, ideas and concepts and by enhancing their awareness of current educational issues and developments.

The programme aims to prepare you to be a successful teacher of D&T, combining your intellectual ability and advanced designing and making skills with managing groups of pupils working safely in a range of practical situations.

The subject

D&T is a relatively new and continually changing subject which remains very popular with children. Success is demonstrated through the practical and intellectual capability to both design and to make quality products. Under the broad banner of D&T in schools, pupils work in four or five different material areas: graphics; food; compliant materials (textiles); materials technology (wood, plastics, metals); systems and control (including electronics, computer control and ECT). Teaching is often studio or workshop based and is a balance of design and taking action.

Entry requirements

All applicants require a strong academic record at A level or equivalent and at degree level including a Lower Second class honours degree or above which should be in a related area of design and technology, such as product, industrial design or engineering.

All applicants must also hold qualifications in English language and mathematics at GCSE grade C or above, or hold equivalent qualifications in these subjects.

Students whose first language is not English require IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 650 paper based or 280 computer based, with 4.5 in Test of Written English. Previous teaching experience is not required but prior experience of working with young people in schools and other settings will be considered as part of the selection process.

All applicants are strongly encouraged to spend some time (at least 2 days) in a secondary school or sixth form college prior to their interview. You will also be asked to complete an application to the CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) for enhanced disclosure. You will also have to satisfy certain health requirements.

To apply for a PGCE course at the University of Manchester you must apply through the Graduate Teacher Training Registry (GTTR ).