PGCE in Education (Computing/IT with Digital Skills for Creative Enterprise)

The PGCE in Computer Science, Digital Skills and Creative Enterprise is a recognised teaching qualification aligned to the General Teaching Council for Northern Ireland professional competences which affords graduates ‘Eligibility to Teach’ (referred to in some other jurisdictions as 'qualified teacher status', QTS). The course is aligned broadly with the Northern Ireland Curriculum, supporting graduates in teaching Digital Skills, Information Technology, Digital Technology, Computer Science and related disciplines in creative multimedia, cybersecurity and digital enterprise across the 11-18 year age range. The programme aims to develop your competence and confidence in the teaching of a range of Digital Skills, IT, Computing and Creative Enterprise qualifications and in the general professional role of the teacher. The PGCE will appeal to you if you wish to move into teaching and if you are an Honours graduate in an area allied to Computer Science, Digital Skills andor Creative Enterprise. Other acceptable combinations include: - An Honours degree PLUS a Master's degree in an area allied to Computer ScienceSoftware Systems Development, Digital Skills or Creative Enterprise which has been awarded prior to applying for the PGCE course. The programme combines university-based tuition, consisting of taught sessions and directed independent study, with professional placements in schools and is organised around three interdependent strands: Professional School-based Experience - focuses on developing practical teaching competence particularly through working closely with experienced teachers during two periods of school placement in contrasting schools. Subject Studies - focuses on teaching and learning within your subject specialism (and cognate areas) based on research-informed practice. Education and Professional Studies - focuses on common aspects of teaching and the professional role of the teacher, bringing together relevant theory, policy and practice. This includes issues such as: the Northern Ireland education system, curriculum theory and policy, theories of learning and assessment, social class and educational disadvantage, special educational needs and barriers to learning, pastoral care and child protectionsafeguarding, student voice, mental health and wellbeing of students, positive behaviour management, diversity and inclusion and whole school approaches to literacy, numeracy, digital skills and the social and emotional health of young people. Students are also offered a choice of elective course designed to enhance the subjects and skills they can offer to schools. Extra places are reserved to prepare those who are interested in teaching their subject through the medium of Irish in Irish-medium schools. An additional certificate in Irish Medium Education (IME) is awarded in conjunction with St Mary's University College.

All applicants must possess the following: At least an Honours degree (and/or higher degree) in an area allied to Computer Science, Digital Skills and/or Creative Enterprise. Other acceptable combinations include: An Honours degree PLUS a Master's degree in an area allied to Computer Science/Software Systems Development, Digital Skills or Creative Enterprise which has been awarded prior to applying for the PGCE course. At the time of application, GCSE Mathematics grade C/4, and GCSE English Language grade C/4 or equivalent qualification. (Please note Essential Skills Level 2 qualifications are not regarded as equivalent for entry to this professional course as the professional accrediting authority, the GTCNI, does not recognise them as equivalent. University Access courses must meet DE Circular 2010/03; this means that modules taken must be in the field of English language and/or mathematics as appropriate, and content must be comparable in breadth and depth to GCSE).