Birmingham Newman Direct
Overview
Choosing to study a PGCE in primary education is your first step to inspiring children in learning about their world, and at Birmingham Newman University and Excelsior Multi Academy Trust, we would love to support you in joining the teaching profession.
The ‘Birmingham Newman Direct’ programme is an exciting school-based Initial Teacher Education route incorporating both academic and school-based modules and providing trainees with the opportunity to immerse themselves into school life from the very start of their course. The programme is designed to prepare you for teaching within your chosen age range (either 3-7 or 5-11). The university modules are based on five Birmingham Newman curriculum themes: Role of the Teacher; Learning, Teaching and Assessment; Adaptive Practice, Understanding and Managing Behaviours and Subject Knowledge.
Two level 7 modules are studied consecutively in the first and second term. These are worth 30 credits each which can be used towards completing a master’s degree at a later date. The third training module, studied across all three school terms, enables you to observe, reflect on and undertake the role of the teacher in the primary phase. This is a non-credit bearing professional module which includes university training and work-related experience in school settings and QTS is obtained by successfully completing both academic and professional modules and through providing evidence of progress.
As part of the programme, you will also take part in four intensive training and practice weeks, designed to further your understanding, knowledge and practice in key areas of primary education.
For those wishing to work within Catholic schools, or who wish to develop their understanding of Religious education, there is also the opportunity to undertake the Catholic Certificate in Religious Studies (CCRS).
What does the course cover?
The first mandatory level 7 module in the autumn term provides opportunities for you as a trainee teacher to explore and understand in theoretical and practical terms, the meaning of teaching and learning in the context of education and being a teacher. In the spring term, the second level 7 module is uniquely designed for PGCE Primary Birmingham Newman Direct trainees only. On this module you will develop your teacher expertise in leading a subject and carrying out a project in your school setting. It will enable you to develop your practice-based enquiry skills. During this process, your findings will impact your own and your colleagues’ understanding and practice and you will also have the opportunity to reflect on your own progress as a learner.
School-based training is central to the ‘Birmingham Newman Direct’ PGCE and will be a feature of all three terms of your PGCE year. You will undertake placements in at least two primary schools, providing opportunities to observe and practise a range of methods and approaches.
School-based training includes observation of experienced teachers, a structured programme of group and whole class teaching and a series of directed activities to explore wider school issues. In order to support your professional development, this work-related study is organised into three stages: Understanding Professional Practice, Managing the Classroom and Meeting the Standards. Each stage supports your transition from trainee to Early Career Teacher through clear guidance and shared expectations.
What careers can I consider?
Birmingham Newman Initial Teacher Education graduates have a high employment rate and are well respected in the region and beyond. Most students take up a position in teaching, although some pursue other careers using the range of transferable skills gained during study. Our graduates have secured employment in a variety of settings and many roles such as subject lead, senior leadership, international posts and consultancy.
On successful completion of the course including demonstrating the required teaching standards, you will be recommended for Qualified Teacher Status with the Department for Education, who confer QTS, ready to start your first teaching job. After your successful completion of the PGCE at level 7, you will also be invited to enrol on the master’s programme to continue your postgraduate studies and support your professional development.
Funding
Students will pay £9250 through student finance to Birmingham Newman University.
Studying and living in Birmingham
Birmingham Newman University is located in Britain’s second city – Birmingham. With one of the youngest city populations in Europe, it is a vibrant and dynamic place to study. Studying at Newman University, you have the advantage of being near to the city, but living in, or commuting to peaceful and comfortable surroundings on campus.
Birmingham has lots of wonderful places to dine out with a range of different cuisines. Places where you can dine out include; Brindley Place, Mailbox and Hagley Road (just 10 minutes’ from Newman). Whether you like to go to; the theatre, gigs or clubs, or enjoy: sports, shopping visiting art galleries or exhibitions – Birmingham will not disappoint and you will be spoilt for choice!
Getting around Birmingham is easy via train, bus or by car. Birmingham has excellent transport links to the rest of Britain, making it easy for those weekend getaways!
Entry Requirements
Students apply for PGCE courses via DfE Apply.
A UK Bachelors Degree (or recognised equivalent qualification)
GCSE English Language, Mathematics and Science at grade 4 (or C) or above (or recognised equivalents). Please be aware that whilst these GCSEs are not mandatory at application point, these qualifications must be obtained by enrolment. See the Birmingham Newman website for additional GCSE information.
Students will also be required to be assured against a set of fundamental maths and English skills by the end of their initial teacher training.
You will need to obtain Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance and meet the requirements for fitness to train to teach prior to starting the course.
International Students
Birmingham Newman University is not licensed by the UK Government to sponsor migrant students under the Student route and is therefore unable to accept applications from international students at present.