PGCE Secondary Modern Languages: The University of Manchester

Course description

Modern Languages - French, German, Spanish

Preparing you for teaching Modern Languages (ML) across two or three key stages of the 11-18 age range, this is a predominantly practical course.

PGCE work in Modern Languages helps you to make the transition from subject expert to teacher.  We aim to give you some insight into the historical and theoretical development of ML teaching so that you can situate current developments in context, e.g. the use of the target language in the National Curriculum, the debate about the teaching of grammar and current developments in ML examinations.

The course involves recognising the contribution you can make to the education of students of all abilities, and relating your practical skills and knowledge to your wider education and pastoral responsibilities.

PGCE courses 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 Secondary courses prepare graduates to teach the National Curriculum and related national strategies, GCSE, AS and A2 level. For the purposes of gaining Qualified Teacher Status, trainees may focus upon the 11-16, 11-18 or 14-19 age range. Learning takes place through a number of school and university based elements. There are five periods of school/college experience: Introductory Primary Experience (2 weeks), School Experience 1 (6/7 weeks), School Experience 2 (7 weeks), School Experience 3 (6/7 weeks), Enhancement Experience (2 weeks).

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. If you are not a native speaker of the language you are proposing to teach (French, German or Spanish), approximately 50% or more of the degree content should have focused on the first language that you are offering to teach.

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.

You should also normally have a second language (French, German or Spanish).  Your knowledge of this second language does not need to be advanced - beginners' level will suffice.  You do not need to have studied this language at degree level.

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