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Mathematics Subject Knowledge Enhancement

Allocations for SKE routes have been confirmed for the current 2012/2013 cycle only. Allocations for SKE routes in 2013/2014 across all providers are currently under review by the Teaching Agency and there may well be significant changes. As a result, we are not currently considering offers which include SKE starting after September 2013. SKE offers in the current year are not affected.

Summary

  • For graduates who are interested in teaching but who need to develop their subject knowledge to teach mathematics in secondary schools
  • Develop a deep understanding of subject knowledge, concepts and skills
  • Get a head-start and prepare yourself for your PGCE course

Introduction

Good mathematics teachers are in short supply and the Mathematics Subject Knowledge Enhancement Courses are an opportunity for more people to become mathematics teachers.

The University of Brighton is offering 6 and 9 month enhancement courses for those graduates who want to teach mathematics, but whose knowledge needs enhancing before they can begin their Initial Teacher Training (ITT).

This course will bring you to the standard required to teach up to KS4 (11-16 year olds), depending on your starting point and progress during the course. The intention is that all successful students would have the potential to teach A-level mathematics.

You don’t have to do your teacher training at the University of Brighton. You can apply for a PGCE or GTP place through any ITT institution. School based trainers can refer a SCITT candidate to an Enhancement Course to top up subject knowledge prior to joining the school. Please note that there is no direct entry onto the Mathematics Subject Knowledge Enhancement Course. All students must be referred onto the Mathematics Subject Knowledge Enhancement Course by their PGCE or GTP provider. Hence the need for a conditional offer from the ITT provider before you join the enhancement course.

Professional accreditation

Upon successful completion of the course, you will then move onto your chosen course of Initial Teacher Training (PGCE, School Centred Initial Teacher Training or Graduate Teacher Programme).

Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) bursary

SKE students starting their course in the course in the academic year 2012/13 may be offered a tax-free bursary; the amount of the bursary depends on the length of the course (number of units) and the subject (whether Group A or Group B). The rates for eligible SKE courses offered at the University of Brighton in 2012-13 are as follows:

Subject Course length Amount
Maths 18-unit £7,200
Maths 12-unit £4,800

Course structure

  • the programme comprises a mix of Mathematics subject modules such as problem posing and solving, geometry, mathematics using ICT, statistics, and mathematical modelling
  • assessment is by completing a portfolio of evidence during the course and by set module assignments
  • the training programme is innovative and designed to be enjoyable and supportive of the subsequent teaching of mathematics. Course tutors are all excellent practitioners, experienced in the delivery of mathematics education
  • the course will consist of taught sessions, practical sessions, seminars, presentations, self-study modules and subject audit related work. Each of the modules is taught by specialist lecturers who are experienced teachers and specialists in their subjects
  • practical skills sessions will take place in order to enhance your skills. You will have the opportunity to experience the work of the mathematics teacher in schools and work alongside some innovative mathematics departments.

Attendance pattern

Full-time for six to nine months, depending on entry qualifications and experience. The nine-month programme runs from 28 September to June, and the six-month programme runs from January to June.

Typical entry requirements

To apply you need to first have secured a place on an ITE course. This can be at any university, School-centred initial teacher training (SCITT) or Graduate Teacher Placement. If you are applying for a PGCE, you can indicate on your application form that you are interested in doing a subject enhancement/extension course.

Entry to either the six or nine-month programme will be dependent upon qualifications and experience:

  • Nine-month programme – above GCSE standard to demonstrate evidence of having appropriate elements of your chosen specialism in further studies and/or occupational experience of the subject
  • Six-month programme – an A-level in mathematics and/or an element of your mathematics in your degree course, or occupational experience of the subject

Examples of other degree subjects include accountancy, psychology, economics, astronomy, business studies, etc.

In addition, you are required to have:

  • GCSE English and mathematics to at least grade C or equivalent
  • Motivation: A real desire to teach mathematics at secondary school level.

Contact

For more information, or if you wish to apply, please contact the Programme Assistant Adam Morley: