Degree + PGCE or straight into Primary teaching degree?

Question

I am absolutely sure of wanting to become a primary school teacher. I have a massive passion for French and am continuing with my French Alevel into A2 and was almost completely sure that I wanted to obtain a degree in French at uni, before continuing to study for the PGCE afterwards. However, my tutor has thrown me, amidst discussion on personal statements and the like, by suggesting that I just go straight into a degree in Primary education.

I'm looking for advice from experiences of those who have gone down the primary education route, as to which may be the better option, as I do have a great love for French, but could this hinder my chances of getting a job in Primary education? Many thanks

Answer 1

Ok.  Firstly there are more options out there if you want to do a degree then a PGCE.  You might decide not to use your degree for teaching and something else might come along. Doing this course is more flexible, which is why they were devised.

Alternatively...

I did a primary 4 year course and have had no problems.  I started teaching in primary and worked up to secondary, now working as a head of dept.  I always think the 4 year teaching course is a much better grounding for school as you cover the subject degree, the education and teaching degree over 4 years rather than 3 and about 9 months PGCE.  I also think it is a lot less rushed.  You have to do a minimum amount of time in school to qualify as a teacher.  You can do this over 4 years (on a primary teaching course) or over 9 months on a PGCE.  What would you feel more comfortable with...cramming it into 9 months, or spreading it over 4 years?

MFL needs to be taught in primary school, but you would have a sound grounding in all subjects, with a specialism in MFL if you did the primary course. If you only want to teach MFL then secondary education is where you need to be thinking.  If you want to teach all subjects but be the school specialist for MFL then primary it is.

So...If it is primary ed, then I suggest the primary 4 year course.  If it is just MFL and the secondary route I suggest the degree and the PGCE.

Good luck

Answer 2

PGCE is fine but all states require certification (licensure) and each state has different criteria so simply having a PGCE is likely not going to cut it.  French is not a language typically taught to Primary aged students though, definitely a potential for hindrance.