Physics enhancement course
Have you ever thought of teaching science in secondary schools, especially physics, but been put off by your limited subject knowledge?
With funding from the Training and Development Agency, Loughborough University is offering a twenty-six week course in physics for science related graduates. This runs from January to July. You will receive a bursary during the course.
On completion, you will progress to a Postgraduate Certificate of Education (PGCE) course either at Loughborough or elsewhere.
The course
The programme will cover seven themes, which will give you a deep understanding of physics in the following areas:
- Mechanics
- Electricity and Magnetism
- Molecular Theory
- Fields and Waves
- Atomic, Nuclear and Fundamental Particle Physics
- Quanta and Relativity
- Astronomy and Cosmology
If you need it, there will be additional mathematics and ICT support available. You will do a lot of practical work to help you to develop your understanding and you will use your practical skills to complete an individual physics investigation.
The course will consist of:
- lectures and seminars in the Teacher Education Unit and with undergraduate students in the Physics Department
- practical sessions
- tutorials
- presentations
- self study units
- visits
What will I do after the Physics Enhancement Course?
In order to start the Physics Enhancement Course, you must have been offered a place on a programme of Initial Teacher Training. This could be at Loughborough University but it could be somewhere else.
When you have successfully completed the Physics Enhancement Course you will go to the institution that offered you a place.
Do I have to pay tuition fees?
No. The course is fully funded by the Training and Development Agency because there is a national shortage of physics teachers. You will also receive a free membership of the Institute of Physics which provides you with additional support, resources and opportunities to learn more.
Do I really get paid to do this course?
Yes, you will receive a tax free bursary of about £200 per week for this 26 week full-time course. Contact Roger Golds (r.a.golds@lboro.ac.uk) for up to date information.
Are my qualifications suitable?
The course is designed for graduates with some physics background (A level or work related, for example) who, without the Physics Enhancement Course, would not be able to start their initial teacher training as a physics specialist. Example backgrounds of people who have completed a Physics Enhancement Course include:
- BSc Physics and Computer Electronics
- MSc Optoelectronics
- BSc Sport and Exercise Science
- BSc Computing Studies
- BSc Chemistry
- BSc Agriculture
- BSc Information Systems
- BSc Medical Physics
- BSc Geography
- BSc Civil Engineering
- BSc Applied Biology
- BSc Sport Technology
Would you like further information?
Contact Roger Golds (r.a.golds@lboro.ac.uk) if you would like to discuss the course or visit the University.
How do I apply?
Apply direct to the University. Contact Fiona McLaughlin at Teacher Education Unit, Matthew Arnold Building, Loughborough University, Leicestershire LE11 3TU or by email to Fiona McLaughlin.
At the same time, you can also apply through the Graduate Teacher Training Registry for a place on the PGCE course at Loughborough or elsewhere. To do this, go to: www.gttr.ac.uk.
Entry Requirements
Loughborough University - TEU - Courses - Entry requirements
Interview and selection
http://www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/teu/downloads/guidance-science.pdf