Goldsmiths - University of London

We encourage you to become teachers who will exercise high standards of classroom practice, and be able to participate in and influence future science education courses. The programme has a commitment to equal opportunities – a theme integrated into science work – and the group will contain students from a variety of ages and cultural backgrounds. Science centres and museums, exhibitions and organisations are within easy reach.

School-based work
During the Autumn term, you observe, participate in and take responsibility for lessons in local schools. A school-based tutor, working in close co-operation with College staff, gives you advice and support; you receive visits from a College-based tutor. You observe experienced teachers at work, and discuss their methods and any difficulties. We ease you into teaching with plenty of support, and you take increasing responsibility for the work of particular classes under the supervision of the regular teacher. There is a 15-hour physics course in a local school for general science students from a biological background, and a short course in biology for chemists and physicists.

College-based work
In College, we focus on the ideas and principles underlying teaching. You look at how children learn and develop, and at the role of language in learning. You consider factors to be taken into account when developing lessons which are interesting, balanced and relevant to pupils’ needs. You have opportunities to explore the different ways in which pupils can develop understanding in science, and to become familiar with a variety of resources that can be used to support these. A particular focus is on how to manage pupils’ behaviour using a wide range of techniques; the programme also covers the assessment of pupils’ knowledge and progress.

Prospective science teachers need to be familiar with debates about the nature of science, to allow them to play a full part in decisions about ways in which school science courses should change. The impact of the National Curriculum on what science is taught, and how, is covered in depth. You can expect to cover topics like: school science courses at Key Stages 3 and 4; computing; data logging; safety; how children learn science; assessment; A-levels and Vocational A-levels; and language and science education. We look at techniques for helping slow and fast learners, and give guidance on topics for teaching practice.

Application enquiries

Please see how to apply for information on applying to this programme.