PGDE Secondary Education: Biology with Science

Course Overview

The biology component of the PGDE course builds on your existing knowledge of biology to transform it into a form which school pupils can understand. You'll work in groups with other student teachers to explore the practicalities of teaching a biology class before, during and after the lesson. What prior knowledge do the pupils have about the topic? What misconceptions are they likely to have, and how can you address them?

What about behaviour management? How can you plan practical work so it engages pupils’ thinking? How can you help pupils to learn to love biology? Once you have taught the lesson, how will you reflect on what you could do better in future?

General Eligibility

Degree requirements

A second-class Honours degree or international equivalent.

Degree must include:

• At least 80 SCQF credits in biology. Credits should cover one subject from List A and List B below:

List A

• Animal biology

• Biochemistry

• Human biology

• Biomolecular science

List B

• Botany

• Plant Biology

Medical-related degrees are not appropriate due to their clinical nature.

Maths & English

• Higher (SCQF Level 6) English Grade C or above

• National 5 (SCQF Level 5) Mathematics Grade C or above

Part Time Work Details

20 hours of work permit weekly for international students.

Language Requirement

• IELTS 6.5 (no individual test score below 5.5)