Mathematics GTTR code: G1X1
This programme prepares you to become a classroom teacher of Mathematics across the 11-18 age range (with a special focus on two or three key stages). You study and learn about issues in Mathematics education ranging from the theoretical, such as the psychology of how children learn Mathematics, to the practical, such as lesson planning. At the core of the course is the development of good practice in becoming a classroom teacher of Mathematics. Teachers and mentors in our partnership schools and colleges inform each component.
Throughout the year you are kept fully informed about the most recent developments in Mathematics education by a team of tutors involved in a number of nationally recognised curriculum development projects.
The content
The programme content is essentially practical; approximately two-thirds of your time is spent in schools and working with a trained mentor. We employ a wide range of teaching methods and styles, ranging from formal teaching to student-led seminars and workshops.
In gaining the ability to teach 11-18 year olds, you'll be engaged in:
- Classroom methods, management, materials and the use of ICT;
- Research into the psychology of learning Mathematics and classroom practice;
- Special needs and issues including the lower achiever, the gifted, culture, gender, assessment, economic and industrial awareness;
- History of Mathematics and Mathematics education;
- Micro-teaching and calculators;
- Extended teaching experience in contrasting schools.
During the Autumn term, you familiarise yourself with the life of the school, prepare for class teaching and be introduced to key areas of Mathematics education. In the Spring term, your main concern is the 11-19 curriculum, extending your experience to a second school/college and complementing the experience of the first. Although during the Summer term you complete the main subject portfolio, you are principally concerned with the final, teaching experience.
"The training demonstrates very effectively how a wide range of teaching methods and resources are used to cover the National Curriculum and post-16 requirements for pupils and students of all abilities and cultures, including those with special educational needs."(OfSTED report, Mathematics)
Support and resources
In recent years, University research groups have contributed to the programme and provided opportunities for students to work with experts in Mathematical education in:
- Assessment in Mathematics;
- Developing dialogue in the classroom;
- Developing post-16 curricula;
- Transferring knowledge from school/college to the workplace.
You also benefit from support and tutoring from tutors and school based mentors throughout the PGCE year.
The PGCE Secondary Mathematics programme leads directly to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and ultimately membership of the General Teaching Council for England (GTCE). This programme prepares participants to teach Mathematics in a range of secondary schools (including 11-16 and 11-18 both maintained and independent) and sixth form colleges. Employment rates are consistently very high.
Course Leader: Geoff Wake
geoff.wake@manchester.ac.uk
What our trainees say
'Very warm and welcoming tutor, assistance provided throughout the course. Provided great insight into the teaching course. An experienced and knowledgeable collection of University tutors.'
'I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at University of Manchester and have gained a lot.'
'Excellent tutor, very experienced and knowledgeable about all areas of teaching and education.'
'Excellent support and assistance from mentor and all staff in the department. Everyone was always very willing to help and give advice. Overall a great placement with tons of support!'
'The school was excellent in providing support during teaching. My mentor was extremely good at giving useful advice.'
'Excellent. All staff really helpful, friendly and approachable. A lot of advice received - formal and informal.'