Contact details
PGCE Administrator
Department of Educational Studies
University of York
York Y010 5DD
Tel: +44 (0)1904 433454
email: educ21@york.ac.uk
Fax: +44 (0)1904 433459
PGCE: Postgraduate Certificate in Education
Mathematics
Mrs Ann Gannon
ag33@york.ac.uk
The York course prepares you to become effective teachers of mathematics with pupils in the 11—18 age range. You will participate in university-based sessions led by experienced staff, guest speakers and teachers from schools. These sessions will include formal presentations, whole and small group discussions and practical workshops.
The university-based course is closely linked to a programme of classroom experience in our partnership schools. When in school you will benefit from a strong system of mentor support.
National concern about mathematics teaching, and developments in our knowledge about how children learn mathematics, have led to major changes in emphasis and teaching approaches to meet the needs of the whole ability range in schools.
You will consider these changes as you learn how to help pupils engage in mathematical thinking and how to use and evaluate different approaches to teaching mathematics: these include practical work, problem solving and open ended investigative work, mental methods of calculation, the use of calculators and computers and stronger links with other subjects and the world of work. You will also learn how to assess both your own teaching and your pupils' learning.
Your training encourages you to reflect on what you learn and experience, so that you can make secure progress during the year. The course combines a practical approach with a strong theoretical basis.
Trainees come to the course with a range of qualifications, employment backgrounds, ICT experience and mathematical interests. Throughout the course you will be encouraged to work collaboratively, sharing this wealth of experience, knowledge and technical expertise.
The basic qualification is a degree with Mathematics forming at least 50% of the course. Examples include, amongst others, Mathematics and Education, Mathematics and Philosophy, some Natural Science degrees and some Engineering degrees.
If you have an A-level in Mathematics and a degree, other than in a Mathematics-related field, then you may be considered a suitable candidate for a Mathematics Enhancement Course prior to commencing the PGCE. Information about Enhancement courses can be found on the TDA website at
http://www.tda.gov.uk/Recruit/thetrainingprocess/pretrainingcourses/subjectenhancementextensioncourses.aspx
“An amazing year! Thank you for enabling me to go off into the world feeling really confident and prepared.”
Mathematics trainee, June 2006“A very professional and productive course.”
Mathematics trainee, June 2007“The course has been excellent...
I have learnt so much this year and
thoroughly enjoyed it.”
Mathematics trainee, June 2008