Certificate in Education

Course Level:N/A

Course Duration:2 Years

Programme Aims

Students undertake six modules for an in-depth exploration of the theories and practices of learning and teaching, there are also two enhancement modules. All modules are delivered in the beautiful surroundings of Bicton College under the direction and in collaboration with the University of Plymouth’s Faculty of Education. This course will give you the opportunity to develop the knowledge, abilities and attitudes relevant to teaching in post compulsory education and training. This course is accredited by the University of Plymouth. A career in post-compulsory education does not just confine you to the classroom; there are also teaching opportunities in other industries such as the police, prison service, armed forces, libraries and high street premises. Other education lecturers have 'portfolio careers', working for a number of organisations, sometimes on short-term contracts, and sometimes also pursuing their specialist area in other ways outside education.

This award is approved by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills and incorporates the Diploma of Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector. Since September 2007 all new teachers working in further education institutions have been required to hold or be working towards this award.

Entry Requirements

• In-house interview with teaching staff before acceptance onto the course
• Appropriate professional practice (minimum two hours per week) in a post-16 teaching and learning environment approved by the college equating to 100 hours of teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector in a full teaching role for the duration of the Programme.
• Appropriate subject and / or professional qualifications (minimum to level 3)
• A commitment to professional development as educators and / or trainers
• Positive reference from two referees
• A positive check through the Criminal Records Bureau
• A willingness to undertake personal study of approximately five hours per week
• You need to find a mentor who is suitably qualified who agrees to support you through the course (details available at interview).
• Students agree to attend all the taught programme sessions

Course Description

This course will give you an opportunity to develop the skills, knowledge, imagination and understanding that you will need if you are working in teaching/training in post-16 education. It is suitable for those who have worked for some time in the post-compulsory sector or for those who have just started working as teachers in the lifelong learning sector and who need to gain a formal teaching qualification.

Teaching and Assessment
Teaching and learning methods used will include classroom based group sessions, small group work, discussions, and teaching observations. In addition to the contact hours shown you will need to attend individual tutorials, group tutorials and complete a minimum of 5 hours of self-directed study per week.

What you will study

Compulsory Modules year 1:

• Processes of learning and teaching
• Enabling learning and assessment
• Theories and Principles for Planning and Enabling Learning

Compulsory Modules year 2:

• Continuing Personal and professional development
• Curriculum Development for inclusive practice
• Wider professional Practice

Assessment

Each module will be assessed by the successful completion of a 1500-2000 word assignment or equivalent.

• You should successfully complete 240 hours of professional practice
• You should successfully complete a minimum of 6 observed sessions of professional practice

Cost

The cost of  this course is  £1050 per year. Information on funding available for this course can be found on the Government website www.direct.gov.uk.

From September 2011 there are grants and loans available to students on part-time courses. To apply for these grants you will need to contact Student Finance England for the PTG1 form, available from late July/August 2011. The following is an extract from Student Finance England:

Part-time students

Part-time students can apply for a Fee Grant and Course Grant by filling in a paper form. The part-time student finance application and notes will be available from August 2011.

Please note the part-time application form only needs to be sent to Student Finance England after you enrol on your course. Your university or college needs to stamp and sign it first. http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/UniversityAndHigherEducation/StudentFinance/DG_194466

We are happy to help students to claim financial support, although we cannot guarantee outcomes.

Employers who are registered with the IfL can claim £400 funding towards the cost of fees for their employees.

DTLLS
The Cert Ed incorporates DTLLS (Diploma for teachers in the lifelong learning sector) which is the required qualification for all full role teachers in the Sector. For more information on teaching roles and qualifications see www.lluk.org and www.ifl.ac.uk.

Following successful completion of this qualification candidates can register for the professional formation process (QTLS).

For further information or an informal chat about the course please contact:

• Val Ranger val.ranger@bicton.ac.uk Tel 01395 562305
• Tamsin Beauchamp tbbeauchamp@bicton.ac.uk Tel 01395 562345
• Jacqui James Jacqui.james@bicton.ac.uk Tel 01395 562359