Learn to Teach in Argyll
If you are considering a career in teaching, you may well be aware that the deadline for submitting your PGDE application to UCAS is looming on the 15th January 2016, but did you know that you can study for The Professional Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) right here in Argyll?
The PGDE is the graduate entry route into teaching in Scotland and is now available to students in Argyll through Argyll College UHI, working in partnership with Argyll and Bute Council. Graduates of the course will hold provisional registration as a primary teacher with the General Teaching Council for Scotland.
The PGDE consists of 18 weeks study at the university, plus 19 weeks in professional practice in a number of primary schools gaining vital hands-on teaching experience in our unique rural environment. Gaelic pathway is available for those already fluent in the language.
Our first cohort are approximately half way through their course and are very enthusiastic about studying in Argyll. ‘’This is a brilliant course with a large portion of collaborative work and plenty of independent study’’ says Jenny Campbell, one of the first students to undertake this programme in Argyll, ‘’Placements give an excellent context to develop teaching practice and vital practical skills. The best thing about studying in Argyll, for me, is being able to continue living in a rural location while studying.’’
"This course prepares the students for a future as primary teachers, giving them the skills and knowledge that they need in order to deliver a high quality education to the children. Being in schools, working alongside class teachers, is an invaluable part of their training.’’ says course tutor Caroline Boyle, ‘’The balance of the course allows the students to learn from teachers, and put into practice all they are studying at university. I am delighted to be supporting such a dedicated and hard working group of students, seeing them develop their skills, and gain in confidence as the course progresses."
Fraser Durie, Principal of Argyll College UHI said “We are delighted to be offering the opportunity for students to study and work in Argyll and Bute for the PGDE in Primary Education. Previously students would have had to travel outwith the region and incur considerable additional costs in order to follow this route. It’s particularly pleasing to have the Diploma available with a Gaelic medium pathway thereby reflecting the linguistic heritage of Argyll and Bute.’’
Applications should be made through UCAS and the closing date for has been extended until February 2016.
For full details on the Professional Graduate Diploma in Primary Education and all enquiries please contact Jen McFadyen at the Oban Campus Tel No. 01631 559509 or by email to jen.mcfadyen@uhi.ac.uk .