A new beginning!

The moment I was waiting is finally here..  

So after a long break of  nearly eight weeks I am once again a student only this time I am a PGCE student  in training to become a college teacher. Two weeks ago I started my  Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in lifelong learning.  I am so excited about this course, however, obviously what I have at the moment is just the right amount of nervousness and apprehension about this year and what it will eventually lead to, a career in teaching, but other than that I honestly cannot wait to just get on with it. I know I am too late starting this dairy but I have decided to keep a dairy for the whole year for the following important reasons:

 

·         It will give me something to look back on and evaluate my progress, strengths and weaknesses over the year. My tutors mentioned the idea of keeping a diary which got me thinking, why not share it?

·         I hope that it might give future PGCE students a realistic idea about course content, placements, time management and the highs and lows which are inevitable over the course.

·         I’d like it to inspire those who think they have what it takes to be a teacher to put themselves out there and apply for courses.

·         I endeavour to keep this diary honest, positive and entertaining and will (time permitting) post every week.

Because I have missed two weeks already, I will Just briefly  talk about what happened over the past two weeks (Week 1&2 : From 16/09/-27/09/2013).

The past two weeks has mainly been based on the course and module inductions, which so far have been very inspiring and exciting. I was  also given a timetable which shows I will be in university on Mondays 9am-12pm and Fridays 9am- 4pm.  Basically I will have two days for my placement and  1 day a week for independent study. My placement days are Wednesdays and Thursdays. So this means that I will have Tuesdays for my independent studies, assignments, etc.



Each different colour block indicate a different module

I have been given so much information, which all seem rather daunting at the moment, but each tutor has reminded us that it is all achievable and the course is structured in a way to make achieving the outcomes doable. I have also been given a brief idea to each modules content and how and when they will be assessed. I have to admit that all my tutors are very supportive.

Also during these past two weeks I was introduced to one of the modules: PTLLS( preparing to teach in the learning and skills sector), ILPs  and Road Map. The following were covered in the sessions:

·         Reflective practice and evaluation my teaching

·         Professional values and practice

·         Equality and Diversity, safeguarding and observation paperwork

To be honest the past two have been very relaxed and less busier , however I have no doubt I am going to be far busier  especially when I start my placement, which is next week, I shall talk more about that next week.  All in all the past two weeks have been good, I have had the opportunity to talk to other members of the course both about the course and socially during breaks, I already know that they are a lovely bunch of people and I am looking forward to getting to know and working with them more as the year goes on.

More to come...

Emmakulatha :)