Teach West Midlands: FAQ's

FAQ's

What routes are there to become a secondary D&T teacher?
What qualifications do I need?
What kinds of degree are acceptable?
Can I have a combined degree?
How long is a one year PGCE in D&T?
How much time is spent in school?
What are the assessments/assignments?
What if I don’t have GCSE Maths and English?
Is there a bursary for D&T?
Are there fees?
Can I get a student loan?
Will I get a job?
How do I apply?
What if I want to ask more?

What routes are there to become a secondary D&T teacher?

One year PGCE
One year GTP

Details of each are given on this web site.

What qualifications do I need?

a minimum 2:2 honours degree in subject related to your chosen areas of study, Product Design, Electronics, Food or Textiles or a closely related subject.
GCSE in English Language and Mathematics at Grade C or higher (or equivalent qualification);
satisfactory levels of capability in Information and Communication Technology;
an interest in teaching within D&T that is clearly demonstrated. This may be evidenced in a number of ways – time spent in schools and/or colleges, knowledge of the chosen curriculum area and appropriate/relevant practical and/or professional experience.

Each provider sets specific requirements as appropriate and their website should be accessed for this.

What kinds of degree are acceptable?

These can vary slightly between providers, but should include substantial amounts of content that relates to D&T activities.

Can I have a combined degree?

Yes. Some providers are happy with a combined degree as long as there is sufficient ICT content. Each provider sets specific requirements as appropriate and their website should be accessed for this.

How long is a one year PGCE in D&T?

These are normally actually around 9 months (36 weeks), September to the end of June.

How much time is spent in school?

The one-year course is an intensive programme. A minimum of 120 days is spent on professional placement in schools and colleges (and other educational settings as appropriate).

On a two year course there is likely to be some time in schools in year one and then 120 days (minimum) in year two.

What are the assessments/assignments?

These will vary between providers. For a one year PGCE, assessment of the course is continuous throughout the year. You are likely to be required to complete written assignments and compile a portfolio of evidence, which exemplifies your teaching experience.

What if I don’t have GCSE Maths and English?

See TDA Website.

Is there a bursary for D&T?

Yes - See TDA Website

Are there fees?

Yes – see section on finance.

Can I get a student loan?

Yes – see section on finance.

Will I get a job?

Employment rates for D&T teachers in the Midlands are very good. Nationally there is still a shortage of good D&T teachers.

How do I apply?

For a PGCE you apply through the GTTR (see section on home page) and www.gttr.ac.uk. It is advisable to apply early, as the course you may want may fill up.

The procedure for GTP is different – see section on this web site on applying.