Secondary Education (Chemistry) PGDE

This course is the first stage you need to complete if you are following the traditional route into secondary education. It covers the Initial Teacher Education phase of your career. When followed by a successful induction year working within a school (Teaching Induction Scheme), you will be qualified to teach Chemistry throughout Scotland.

We prepare you to teach aspects of the science content of the broad general education phase and the senior phase related to the Chemistry National Qualification.

Through two on-campus study modules combined with three school placements, you gain vital classroom skills and experience while also learning the theory of teaching Chemistry to children and young adults. You also explore the requirements for teachers to support literacy, numeracy, health and well-being.

Small class sizes mean you will benefit from a strong supportive community of staff and students. You will receive individual support throughout the course from an allocated tutor, who will also visit and assess you on each of your placements. Additionally you will be allocated a mentor from within the schools you are working in.

You'll also be able to choose from a range of elective options. These offer additional guidance in areas such as outdoor learning, cooperative learning, and drama.

You may be eligible to receive a Scottish Government bursary worth up to £20,000. These bursaries are for people looking to change careers and become secondary school teachers in certain STEM subjects.