Somerset College

Who is this course for?

This is a nationally recognised teacher training course for graduates teaching in the lifelong learning sector. 

Description

• Postgraduate Certificate in Education - Higher Education Level 4/5 or NQF Level 6/7
• Professional Graduate Certificate in Education - Higher Education Level 3/4 or NQF Level 6
• Certificate in Education - Higher Education Level 1/2 or NQF Level 4/5

It is accredited by the University of Plymouth and endorsed by Lifelong Learning UK (LLUK) for those teaching in LSC funded practice and Quality Marked by LLUK for those who are not teaching in LSC funded practice. 

There are six core modules and two enhancement modules; the six core modules are:

• Processes of learning and teaching
• Enabling learning and assessment
• Theories and principles for planning and enabling learning
• Curriculum development for inclusive practice
• Continuing personal and professional development
• Wider professional practice

Career Opportunities

You will be able to apply for a full teaching role of adults in a Further Education College, Sixth Form College or other teacher/training environment of adults.

Progression Opportunities

If you are keen to progress with your studies you may decide to progress to a Masters level qualification in Education.

Teaching and Assessment

Teaching and learning methods used will include classroom based group sessions, small group work, discussions, micro-teaching, teaching through a variety of ILT resources, observations of practice and individual tutorials.

Each module will be assessed by the successful completion of an assignment, or equivalent, and completion of an Individual Development Portfolio showing evidence of teaching practice and development. You should successfully complete 200 hours of professional practice. You should also successfully complete a minimum of 8 observed sessions of professional practice.

Entry Requirements

You will need to provide evidence that you can fulfil the following requirements in order to gain a place on the course:

• Appropriate professional practice (150 hours of direct teaching practice plus 50 hours additional professional practice over the duration of the programme). This should be in a teaching role that carries the full range of teaching responsibilities, whether on a full-time, part-time, fractional, fixed term, temporary or agency basis in the lifelong learning sector. Appropriate practice is considered to be, for example, a further education college (including HE in FE), work-based learning, training role in a voluntary organisation or an adult education service.
• A subject-specialist mentor, who is already qualified with PGCE or Certificate in Education and is available to observe your practice and meet with you on a regular basis. 
• An appropriate degree
• Passes in Information Communication technology, Literacy and Numeracy tests at NQF Level 1 with the potential to achieve Level 2 by the end of the programme
• A working knowledge of appropriate ICT skills eg word processing
• A commitment to professional development as teachers/tutors/trainers
• Positive references from two referees
• An Enhanced Criminal Records Bureau clearance, register with the Independent Safeguarding Authority and complete a criminal convictions self-declaration form. 
• A willingness to undertake personal study of approximately 100 hrs per module 
• The intention to attend all the programme sessions
• A successful interview

This course may involve regular access to children and/or vulnerable adults (also known as regulated activity).

From the 6^th of April 2011 the fee for an enhanced Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check will be £44. The College will send further instructions on applying for your CRB as part of the admissions process.

All candidates will also be required to register with the Institute for Learning (IFL), the cost of this for 2012 is yet to be confirmed.

Students who do not achieve Level 7 during the course are able to apply for a Profession Graduate Certificate in Education at Level 6.

Costs

Tuition Fees: Price on application.  Materials Fee: TBC

*Full fees do not apply to all, please enquire upon application

Contact

Tel:  01823 366 331;  Email:  enquiries@somerset.ac.uk