17 June 2004

New option for teacher training

The University of Dundee is launching a revolutionary new course for teacher training that will allow prospective secondary teachers to study for their post grad qualification at a distance. The course also helps those who seek to change career by minimising loss of earnings as they take their professional training.

Students will be able to study part-time, in the evenings or during the day and use the latest in distance learning initiatives with the University's highly successful Virtual Learning Environment which they can access from their computers at home.

Students who opt to carry on a full time job and study in their leisure time will be able to negotiate their teaching placements into their holidays or around childcare commitments.

The two year part time course is taking students from September and will be training teachers in the subject areas: English, Maths, Physics and Modern Languages to help to address the shortage of staff in these areas in schools and to tie in with Scottish Executive priority areas in learning.

Professor Ron Elder, Dean of the Faculty of Education and Social Work at the University of Dundee said: "This new programme is a dynamic and innovative response to the shortage of secondary teachers in core curriculum areas. The course will use the latest in teaching technology allowing the students to learn from a distance, share experiences and ideas whilst providing them with the highest quality teacher training."

The new programme received accreditation from the General Teaching Council on 11 June 2004 and will be commencing in September.

This course adds to the wide portfolio of professional courses offered by the University of Dundee. Dundee graduates more professionals than any other Scottish University.

To find out more about the teaching qualification call Gillian French on 01382 464423.

By Jenny Marra, Head of Press 01382 344910, out of hours: 07968298585, j.m.marra@dundee.ac.uk