Mathematics
The primary mathematics element of the PGCE primary course aims to support and guide trainees to become enthusiastic and highly proficient teachers of primary mathematics. Whatever your previous experience of the subject the tutors wish to help you realise the enjoyment and excitement in mathematics and particularly in helping young children to develop positive attitudes as well as proficiency in the subject.
The PGCE Mathematics course
The PGCE maths course has four distinct but inter-related elements:
- Taught sessions, linked directed readings and tasks:
These consist of lectures and practical workshops to develop and revise subject knowledge and to teach trainees about the ways in which mathematics is taught to primary school children and how children learn mathematical concepts, skills and knowledge. - School-based tasks:
These are complete on day visits and longer professional placements. They link into the assignments for this course element. - Independent learning of maths:This is based on the results of audits of subject knowledge. Trainees develop a file of independent work in maths to fill any gaps in knowledge and revise earlier maths knowledge they may have forgotten.
- Practical teaching in school:
Trainees teach maths to a small group of pupils early in the maths course and use this experience as the basis of the first part of the mathematics assignment. During longer professional placements trainees develop their competences in practical teaching of mathematics and this is monitored and assessed by course tutors and teacher-mentors in partnership schools.
This course is led and taught by Laurence Hicks supported by Olwen McNamara.
Partnership Head teachers also teach on the course and contribute to planning and course review. The course is evaluated every year and trainees' suggestions for course modification are taken into account.