Teaching PGCE

[hugoboss]

I really want to be a primary teacher, and want to do a PGCE course very soon. However, I think i am too late for the courses starting in Sept this year. I am aware that I could apply, and just wait and see if anyone pulls out etc. Any other ideas of how to get in this year?? I am already doing 1 afternoon a week at a local school to help build up my experience.

Does anyone know about 'on-the-job' training? A friend of mine has said they've heard of getting qualified this way.

Any ideas/thoughts about primary teaching etc would by gratefully received.

Ta

[IndieSinger]

The best way to do it is through the GTTR (Graduate Teacher Training Registry) but, as you say, applications for a Primary School PGCE starting in September this year have now closed (I think they closed early in December 2004). I've talked with many people who have gone straight into a primary teaching job (without going through any government recruitment agency and therefore not studying a PGCE) and every single one of them regrets it. If you do want to try this way, a good place to look for jobs would be in the Times Educational Supplement (usually just called TES). But getting a job depends on the desperation of schools!

Alternatively, you can still apply through the GTTR, but come June, you will be put through clearing. You can't choose what PGCE Primary course you do, you're just dished out something that's left (if there is anything).

However, if I were in your situation, I would be strongly tempted to leave it this year and apply as soon as possible for 2006 entry. To do this, you will need to apply between September 2005 and the beginning of December 2005.

Good luck!

[Scarlett]

I decided to do my PGCE about 2 days before the course started!!! I know they have theoretical deadlines, but it really depends if the course has filled it's places. Phone up the College/Uni and ask!

[IndieSinger]

I should point out that the deadlines are for application on the Internet - it's impossible to apply after application time expires (on 1st December). But as Scarlet says, it might be worth 'phonine universities up individually to see what places they haven't managed to fill.

[Sarafeen Mas]

I want to do PGCE but i am a student of Bible in uk basically i was teacher back home in pakistan am i eligible to do this course