PGCE History Postgraduate Certificate of Education (PGCE)

Ulster University

The course offers graduates wishing to progress into post-primary education the opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills to become an effective teacher of history. You are introduced to the most recent research-informed developments in history curriculum and pedagogy, relevant to teaching the Northern Ireland Curriculum. History's place in the curriculum is established along with its links to other subject areas. Throughout the course history teaching is related to wider educational themes including learning theory, the improvement of literacy and numeracy, classroom and behaviour management, assessment and to developing students' skills in Information and Communication Technology. The PGCE is both an academic and a professional qualification. On successful completion of initial teacher education student teachers will be able to evidence their competence and be awarded the Post Graduate Certificate in Education allowing them to register with the General Teaching Council of Northern Ireland. They will also accrue 60 CATS points towards a Master’s degree in Education. In total the PGCE is worth 120 points (60 at Master’s Level 7 and 60 at Post graduate Level 6). While the initial motivation for wishing to enter this course may be to teach a specialist subject, it is important to recognise that there is much which is covered that is generic to teaching and learning in all subjects. In addition to academic achievement, teachers are prepared for contributing to young people's development as individuals, and as contributors to society, the economy and the environment. In Northern Ireland history teaching has an important role in helping young people understand past conflict so that they can better contribute to a more just and peaceful society. The PGCE programme is committed to education contributing to the vision of Northern Irish society as a shared society. Those enrolling can expect to be challenged to reflect on the impact education can have on a society emerging from conflict.

Ulster University