Starting a PE PGCE will challenge and shape you as both a professional and an individual. With preparation, enthusiasm, and a growth mindset, you’ll set yourself up for success.
Selecting the Right PE PGCE Course For You
Research, Research, Research
Make sure you do your research on potential Universities and courses. How is the course structured, how many assignments are there, how many school placements do you undertake, who are their partnership schools, how big is their PE cohort, what opportunities are there for working with other subjects/trainees, what are their intensive training and practice topics, what are their employment statistics, who are the university tutors, how do they prepare trainees in meeting the teacher standards at the end of the year etc. etc.
What is the course reputation like, do colleagues, other PE teachers, local primary and secondary schools rate the provision? What do previous students say about the course, the support they received and the quality of the training?
Being armed with this information will help you choose the right initial teacher training course for you.
Initial Teacher Education Courses
Physical Education (PE) courses are designed to equip aspiring teachers with the essential knowledge, skills, and expertise needed to excel in teaching Physical Education in secondary schools. These courses typically lead to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), a crucial credential for those looking to shape the lives of young people through sport and physical activity. Teaching Physical Education is both challenging and rewarding, offering high job satisfaction and the opportunity to make a significant impact on students’ physical and mental well-being, and promote a lifelong love of engaging in physical activity. By developing robust teaching skills and deep subject knowledge, these courses provide an ideal platform for a successful career in secondary education.
Types of Physical Education Courses
When it comes to Physical Education courses, there are several options to consider, each tailored to different needs and career goals. Popular choices include the PGCE Secondary Physical Education, or a PGCE Primary Education with a Physical Education subject specialism. There are also school based training courses that offer a slightly different pathway into teaching. These courses are specifically designed for individuals aiming to become qualified teachers of Physical Education. They offer a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical training, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for teaching. Some programmes also offer specialisations in areas such as dance, gymnastics, or sports coaching, allowing you to tailor your training to your interests and career aspirations.
Preparation Before the Course
Understand the National Curriculum
Familiarise yourself with the Physical Education National Curriculum and assessment frameworks for your target age group. Explore key topics like health and fitness, team games, individual sports, and outdoor adventure activities.
Gain School Experience
Spend time observing and assisting in PE lessons. When observing qualified teachers teaching physical education notice how they manage pupil behaviour, transitions, and adapt the activities to promote progress. How do they plan, deliver and engage the young people in their class? Observe lots of lessons both practical and classroom practice.
It is also worth visiting a number of schools. Secondary schools and primary schools may well have different approaches to delivering physical education. It is always good to observe a range of different approaches to the teaching of physical education. Also observe a range of teachers those who are non-specialists, newly qualified specialists and more experienced teachers.
Consider researching different curriculum maps for primary and secondary physical education what is the content that is delivered and consider conducting a teaching skills audit to find out what your strengths are and what you need to do to improve upon your areas for development.
Brush Up On Your Subject Knowledge
The PGCE course will help you in how to teach but you can help ease the learning curve by learning as much as you can about a variety of sports and activities by attending National Governing Body Courses, Playing the Sports yourself, watching them online or on TV and engaging in professional development to help you understand the rules, basic tactics and skills required in order to play the game or activity.
Stay Active Yourself
Continue participating in sports or fitness activities to model enthusiasm and skill for students.
Prepare Financially
The PGCE year can be really demanding and it may put pressure on your finances as your ability to earn through part time jobs might be reduced. Plan for expenses like travel, equipment, and study resources.
Entry Requirements and Admissions
To enrol in a Physical Education course, you typically need a good honours degree in a relevant subject, such as Physical Education, Sports Science, or a related field. Additionally, GCSEs in English and Mathematics are usually required, along with a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and a medical check to ensure your suitability for working with children. Some courses may also require applicants to have prior experience working with children or in a sports-related field. The admissions process often includes an interview, a teaching task, as well as a review of your personal statement and references. These steps help ensure that candidates are well-prepared and passionate about pursuing a career in teaching Physical Education.
During the Secondary Teacher Training PE PGCE Course
Master Time Management
Juggling lesson planning, teaching practice, and assignments is crucial for developing professional skills. Use planners, apps, or schedules to stay on top of deadlines.
Engage Actively with Feedback
Take feedback from mentors, tutors, and peers as opportunities to improve. Reflect on lessons to identify strengths and areas to develop.
Develop Behaviour Management Skills
Consistent and clear behaviour expectations are essential in PE. Learn strategies to manage group dynamics and promote a positive atmosphere.
Adapt to Different Environments
PE lessons often move between classrooms, gyms, fields, and courts. Be ready to adapt plans based on space, weather, and resources.
Practical Teaching Tips
Adapt Your Practice
Be ready to change and adapt your plans to include activities that cater to varied skill levels and physical abilities. Use scaffolding to help less confident students while challenging more advanced ones. Demonstrating progress against the teachers standards is crucial in this process.
Build Positive Relationships with Students
Show enthusiasm and fairness. Students are more likely to engage when they feel respected and valued.
Be Safety-Conscious
Learn to assess risks and ensure activities are safe. Understanding first aid is invaluable.
Personal and Professional Practice and Development
Stay Reflective
Reflect on your teaching daily to identify what went well and what could improve. Keep a journal or use apps to document insights.
Connect with Your Cohort
Build relationships with fellow PGCE students. Sharing experiences, resources, and advice can make the journey easier and more enjoyable.
Explore Teaching Resources and Platforms
Use online platforms like PE-specific blogs, YouTube channels, and teaching resources to stay inspired and innovative. Social media platforms are great to collaboration and networking but do also be cautious not all advice is great advice. It is a good idea to follow and regularly visit our subject association AfPE. Our secondary teacher training programs are designed to develop skilled, reflective secondary teachers, particularly in physical education.
Prioritise Self-Care
Teaching can be physically and emotionally demanding. Balance your workload with rest, exercise, and activities that help you recharge.
Careers and Employability
Graduating from a Physical Education course opens up a wide range of career opportunities. Many graduates go on to teach Physical Education in secondary schools, while others find roles as sports coaches, instructors, or in sports development and management. The skills and knowledge gained through these courses, such as lesson planning, classroom management, and assessment, are highly transferable and can be applied to various careers. The professional practice and teaching skills developed during the course help graduates become effective and confident teachers, capable of inspiring and motivating their students. Whether you choose to stay in education or explore other avenues in the sports industry, a Physical Education course provides a strong foundation for a successful and fulfilling career.
Looking Ahead
Starting an initial teacher training course will challenge and shape you as both a professional and an individual. With preparation, enthusiasm, and a growth mindset, you’ll set yourself up for success and gain your qualified teacher status as a physical education teacher. Choosing the right course will ultimately help to set you up in obtaining your first teaching post and provide the foundation for the rest of your career. As an early career teacher, you will be well-prepared to enter the profession and effectively meet educational standards while adapting your teaching approach to meet the diverse learning needs of pupils.
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