Physics Subject Knowledge Enhancement

Develop subject knowledge in physics and prepare to teach the subject effectively to learners aged 11-16 on this flexible free enhancement course for those with the offer a place on our PGCE in Secondary Science (Physics).

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Start dates for 2024-2025 are yet to be confirmed.

Overview

Example offers:	An offer of a place on the PGCE Secondary Science (Physics) with QTS (11-16) at Edge Hill University. View full entry criteria
Subject(s):	Education and Teaching
Faculty:	Education
Department:	Secondary and Further Education

Four students walk near the Faculty of Education.

If you have applied to study on the PGCE Secondary Science (Physics) with QTS (11-16) at Edge Hill University and require enhancement of your subject knowledge, then this course could be for you.

The aim of the course is to develop your subject knowledge in physics to prepare you to teach the conceptual and applied aspects of the subject effectively, with competence, enthusiasm and confidence, to learners aged 11-16 years. Trainees will be encouraged to prepare for teaching A Level topics where appropriate.

Different course lengths are available and the most suitable structure for you will depend on whether you studied a degree in a science discipline or a non-science subject. The course structure and length will be flexible to reflect the needs of each individual trainee.

What you'll study

If your degree contains less than 50% physical science, or if your degree is in an alternative science discipline, and you wish to train as a physics teacher, then you may be able to enrol on this course. The actual length of the course depends on your qualifications and experience. This will be determined at a needs analysis session at the University. We will contact you to arrange this session shortly after we receive your application.

The course is designed to achieve the following:

Address gaps in your subject knowledge.
Inspire you to promote learning in physics that is challenging and engaging for all students.
Identify and build upon your prior learning and develop your capacity for future self-study.
Enable you to recognise the links between the physical and life sciences and technology and engineering.
Develop your ability to support learners’ understanding of the rich narrative of physical sciences.
Develop your understanding of the relevant mathematical concepts and when to use them in teaching and learning of the physical sciences.
Develop your understanding of the place of health and safety in a physical setting.
Develop use of appropriate technology in teaching and learning.

How you'll study

The course structure and length will be flexible to reflect your individual needs. The course is divided into individual units, each requiring 50 hours of learning time, normally within a space of two weeks. This learning will be a blend of face-to-face sessions, online learning, and supported self-study, with one day every fortnight on campus.

How you'll be assessed

There are no formal examinations. You will build a portfolio from directed activities.

You can expect to receive your timetable at enrolment. Please note that while we make every effort to ensure that timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place on any day or evening of the week.

Entry criteria

Entry requirements (2025 / 2026)

You may apply for the course if you have been offered a place on the PGCE Secondary Science (Physics) with QTS (11-16) at Edge Hill University.

Completion of this subject knowledge enhancement course may form part of your offer conditions for a place on the PGCE Secondary Science (Physics) with QTS (11-16). Please note, however, that completion of this subject knowledge enhancement course does not necessarily qualify you for a place on the PGCE unless this is made clear at the time the offer is made. This will be discussed with you if you are called for an interview.

How to apply

Applications are currently closed for this course.

Should you accept an offer of a place to study with us and formally enrol as a student, you will be subject to the provisions of the regulations, rules, codes, conditions and policies which apply to our students. These are available at www.edgehill.ac.uk/studentterms.

Facilities

The Faculty of Education enjoys the enviable position of being one of the country’s leading providers of transformative education, training and research for the teaching and education workforce. Housed in a state-of-the-art £9m building, the Faculty of Education enjoys a stunning setting from both its lakeside and piazza buildings.

Facilities in the lakeside building include a 300-seat lecture theatre, five well-equipped ICT suites, and 18 teaching rooms complete with the latest technology.

Our nearby piazza building houses our Research Hub and our Secondary and Further Education department including a lecture theatre and a number of seminar rooms.