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Well-qualified mathematics teachers are in high demand in London, the UK and across the world. The Mathematics PGCE programme at the IOE is rigorously informed by research, including developments internationally. Students learn how to make mathematics meaningful, interesting and fun and how to analyse their own and their pupils’ development.
Key information
Programme starts
September 2020
Modes and duration
Application dates
Tuition fees (2020/21)
Note on fees:
The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website.
Accreditation
Students who successfully complete this programme will be recommended for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
Entry requirements
A minimum of a lower second-class UK Bachelor’s degree or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard in Mathematics, or mathematical content of 50% or more.
No specific subjects required.
English Language and Mathematics at grade C or 5. Applicants who do not offer a GCSE in English Language or Mathematics may demonstrate an equivalent standard by completing a test via www.equivalencytesting.com and achieving at least a grade 5. We do not accept "applied" or "additional" GCSE subjects. We do not accept BTEC, Functional Skills or Access course qualifications in place of GCSEs.
We recommend that you aim to gain some experience in a classroom prior to interview.
If you are made an offer you will be required to successfully complete Occupational Health and Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) Enhanced Disclosure checks. The total cost of these checks is £157. These checks are required to ensure you meet the Department for Education’s requirements for physical and mental health to teach, as well as assessing your suitability for access to children and vulnerable adults. More details can be found on the Entry requirements page.
Trainees will be assured against a set of fundamental Mathematics and English skills by the end of their teacher training.
English language requirements
If your education has not been conducted in the English language, you will be expected to demonstrate evidence of an adequate level of English proficiency.
The English language level for this programme is: Good
Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.
International students
Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website.
Visa information
This programme is suitable for international students on a Tier 4 visa - study must be full-time, face-to-face, starting September.
International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below.
Select your country:
About this programme
The PGCE mathematics programme aims to develop critical understanding of the nature of mathematics and its position in the school curriculum. Student teachers engage with research evidence and theories of learning in order to make sense of practice they observe in schools. They explore how teaching approaches can help learners develop mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills and cultivate enjoyment of mathematics.
Students undertake two Master's-level (level 7) modules of 30 credits each, totalling 60 credits. These credits can be carried forward onto some Master's programmes at the IOE (check individual programme requirements).
The secondary PGCE consists of three core modules: two Master's level (level 7) modules, which are assessed through 5000-word written assignments and the Professional Practice module, which is assessed by the observation of practical teaching in two placement schools.
Upon successful completion of 60 credits, you will be awarded a PGCE.
Compulsory modules
- Subject Studies - Mathematics
- Wider Educational Studies - Mathematics
- Secondary - Professional Practice
Please note that the list of modules given here is indicative. This information is published a long time in advance of enrolment and module content and availability is subject to change.
Placement
Student Teachers undertake placements at two partnership schools (120 days in total). During each placement the development of their teaching practice is supported closely by a school-based mentor and other colleagues within the mathematics department. The school also provides a programme of Professional Studies which is co-ordinated by a senior teacher at the school. The Professional Practice module is assessed through observations of teaching and a portfolio of key assessments collated by the student teacher.
Teaching and learning
The Mathematics PGCE is taught via keynote lectures, subject studies seminars, workshops, tutorials and directed study days at the UCL Institute of Education and through two placements at partnership schools. Assessment is by the observation of practical teaching, written academic assignments and a portfolio of key assessments (which is closely linked to the Teachers' Standards).
Accessibility
Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble. Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support & Wellbeing team.
Funding
Bursaries are available for some subject programmes to students who meet the eligibility criteria. To find out what funding may be available to you, please visit the Department for Education funding page.
For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the UCL Scholarships and Funding website.
Careers
Most graduates of this programme go on to work as mathematics teachers in schools across London and further afield. Whilst the programme focuses primarily on teaching 11-16 year-olds (Key Stages 3 and 4), we also prepare students to teach A Level mathematics. Many of those who secure a post in an 11-18 school have an opportunity to do so. Graduates of the programme commonly go on to become curriculum leaders, pastoral leaders or senior leaders in schools. Others become advisers, consultants providers of continuing professional development, researchers or teacher educators in universities.
Employability
UCL Institute of Education's excellent reputation helps ensure that graduates of the PGCE Mathematics programme are highly employable and sought after by schools and colleges in London and further afield. Almost all student teachers secure their first teaching post by the time they complete the programme. Many PGCE Mathematics graduates become a head of department or head of year within 2-5 years, frequently progressing to senior leadership in schools. Several are now headteachers. Others have developed their careers by becoming lead teachers in the classroom, engaging in further study and research or by writing, blogging and advising other teachers.
Why study this programme at UCL?
We maintain a strong focus throughout the programme on the teaching and learning of mathematics. Through the careful planning and evaluation of lessons, student teachers are supported in developing their own classroom practice and becoming research-informed reflective practitioners.
The PGCE Mathematics tutors are skilled classroom practitioners with extensive experience of teaching and leadership in secondary schools. They are also currently engaged in research in mathematics education. The programme draws regularly on the wider range of expertise in mathematics education available within UCL Institute of Education.
The school-based experience provides an opportunity to try out new ideas and develop successful classroom practice, supported by experienced mentors in schools. Student teachers benefit from the mutual support provided by others in the cohort with whom they are able to share experiences and ideas through regular group discussion.
Accreditation
Students who successfully complete this programme will be recommended for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
Department: Institute of Education
Application and next steps
Applications
Students are advised to apply as early as possible due to competition for places. Those applying for scholarship funding (particularly overseas applicants) should take note of application deadlines.
Who can apply?
The Secondary PGCE full-time programme is suited to those wishing to gain Qualified Teaching Status (QTS) for teaching in a UK maintained (state-funded) school and who have fulfilled the appropriate entry requirements.
Application deadlines
- All applicants
- 21 August 2020
Early application is advised as programmes may close as soon as places are filled. Applicants should check the government website for the latest vacancy information.
For more information see our Applications page.
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Page last modified on 24 February 2020