When do I apply to do my PGCE?

Question

I begin the final year of my BSc Maths in September, I want to teach Secondary school maths and need to know when to apply.

Is it essential that I have experience in a secondary school before applying?

Answer 1

It is better to apply sooner rather than later to ensure you get a place. When applying, one of the things they look at is how much experience you have had in a school, so my recommendation would be to approach schools now - then when you have a confirmed period of observation in a school (or even better, two schools in different cachement areas) fill out your application form, stating that you have this observation period pending.

When approaching schools for observation, it is best to make contact either by email or letter as they tend to be incredibly busy! Or even better, if you have any friends or family that are teachers, they can generally get you in for some observation.

To answer your last question - it is not essential that you have experience before applying - but be aware, it helps your application enormously and even if you do get in without experience, they will probably only offer you a place on the condition that you get some experience fast!

(that is what happened to me!)

Answer 2

Apply NOW! It depends where you want to study but apply now for next Sepetember. In the meantime it is not essential to have secondary experience but it won't hurt. Try to get some TA support work too if you can. It's good for your CV. Good luck and welcome to a world of pain! PGCE is not an easy ride but well worth it.  

Answer 3

Hiya,

Yes it is essential that you have some work experience within a classroom at the level you hope to teach.  I suggest you write to all your local secondary schools and explain that you'd like to volunteer and why.  Include a copy of your C.V and express your interests in maths.  Or find out if your university runs a 'students into schools' module, as they are good and recognised by PGCE course providers.  Perhaps you could do that module in your final year?

Also, you cannot apply for PGCE September 2009 entry until the end of September.  You apply through GTTR (Graduate Teacher Training Register), which is connected to UCAS.  You can apply online at www.gttr.gov.uk.  But they do not open the port-hole to the online application form until the end of next month, so just keep checking!

I would encourage you to apply as soon as the port-hole opens, as places fill up fast!

Good Luck!

Answer 4

Apply NOW.