Professional Studies sessions aim to inform student teachers about aspects of professional practice which are central to the work of teachers whatever their subjects. A wide range of topics are covered including cross curricular issues such as school management, classroom behaviour, the National Curriculum, pastoral care, special educational needs, personal and social education etc. The aim of the school experience is that it should be progressive, giving student teachers scope for reflection and time to develop a range of appropriate teaching styles and strategies. It will be interwoven with the College based part of the course which will in turn both draw from and feed into the school experience. Theory and practice are fully interwoven, offering student teachers opportunities to develop their own understandings, skills and knowledge.
Collaborative teaching is an essential element of that framework.
As collaborative teaching gives way to support of a more general nature, student teachers will continue to observe and reflect on good teaching. As employers of teachers in the public sector the Government has a key interest in the effective training of teachers and in maintaining a healthy supply of teachers. The 1,000 tuition fee contribution will therefore not apply to students on PGCE courses. They will continue to receive free tuition.