Learn to teach in Argyll

If you already have a degree and would like a career in teaching, you might consider studying for the Professional Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) right here in Argyll with the University of the Highlands and Islands.

As part of the University of the Highlands and Islands we can deliver here in Argyll and the Isles, where the requirement for this qualification is Fraser Durie Principal of Argyll College UHI

The PGDE is the graduate entry route into teaching in Scotland and is now available to students via Argyll College UHI. Our programme for primary teaching is well established and we plan to introduce a programme for secondary school teachers in session 2017-18, depending on demand.

The PGDE consists of 18 weeks of study at the Argyll College UHI’s Oban centre, plus 19 weeks in professional practice in schools throughout Argyll and Bute. A Gaelic pathway is available for those already fluent in the language.

Vital practical skills

Lyndsey Collins is a current student and is loving the course. She said: ‘I initially thought I’d have to leave Oban and move back to Glasgow to undertake the Professional Graduate Diploma in Education, so when I learned that the course was available at Argyll College UHI I was delighted.

‘The school placements give an excellent context to develop teaching practice and vital practical skills, and the staff in schools are really supportive.’

Course tutor Caroline Boyle added: ‘We currently have students from all over Argyll who combine the university study weeks in Oban with teaching practice nearer to their homes elsewhere in Argyll.

‘The balance of the course allows the students to learn from teachers in schools, and put into practice all they are studying at university. I am delighted to be supporting such a dedicated and hard working group of students, seeing them develop their skills, and gain in confidence as the course progresses.’

Fraser Durie, principal of Argyll College UHI, said: ‘We are delighted that the PGDE in primary education is becoming such an integral and successful part of our curriculum and we are excited about the prospect of introducing the secondary teaching option in the coming academic year. Previously, students would have had to leave the area to access this level of qualification. As part of the University of the Highlands and Islands, we can deliver here in Argyll and the Isles, where the requirement for this qualification is. It’s particularly pleasing to have the diploma available with a Gaelic-medium pathway thereby reflecting the linguistic heritage of Argyll and Bute.’

Information event

If you’d like to find out more about the PDGE, go along to an information event on Thursday December 15 from 5.30pm to 6.30pm in the Argyll College UHI Oban centre at Glenshellach Business Park.

This event can also be attended by video link from any Argyll College UHI centre. Contact your local centre or Jen McFadyen on 01631 559509 to book.