The course offers a range of quality learning contexts to support trainee progress towards meeting the standards for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

The Course has three main foci (see below) of teaching and learning which are addressed through modules. Each module gives detail as to the specific teaching and learning methods used. The descriptors below indicate the general teaching and learning methods applied to achieve the outcomes of the course.

Centre based study
These sessions provide the knowledge base for trainees and address ethical issues. Centre based studies include the following: lectures, discussions, activities, seminars, discussions with professionals, assignments and tasks to ensure the link between centre based theory, subject knowledge and/or pedagogy and school based study. Assignments require trainees to undertake subject related reading.

School based study
This method of teaching and learning enables trainees to transfer knowledge and skills taught within centre based study to the school setting. These skills are developed throughout the course by the following: observations of good practice, school training, teaching, observations and feedback from school based and professional tutors, school based tasks and discussions with professional colleagues.

Personal study
Trainees are actively encouraged to undertake personal study. Skills addressed include self-evaluations, working within a group and autonomy. Trainees learn to write their own learning plans and maintain a Record of Professional Development. Trainees develop their own knowledge through reading and research for assignments.