PGCE English

[Pixie123]

Hi all I was wondering if someone could give me some advice. I have just been accepted to study English on a PGCE course this september. I never expected to get through with all the cuts this year and competition. I've always wanted to be an English teacher but I'm terrified that because of my dyspraxia I'm just not cut out for teaching. It is only minor but things like spelling can be a bit of an issue. And I don't know how I'm going to pass the QTS tests... Should I withdraw? Any help would be appreciated!!!

[agsiul]

Can I ask why you want to be an English teacher? What is it that appeals to you?

[Evasura]

I just can say, good luck with that. I am a teacher in UK and i must say, i don't think I would have passed my PGCE if I had done it here. (I did mine in Spain and had it validated), especially if you have problems with maths and work slowly. Loads of assignments and forms to do and it's definitely not dyspraxia friendly. May sound harsh, but it is bloody hard work, even for people without learning needs. Now, if you are determined, resilient and you are ready for the worst (and if you can do maths), you can do nearly anything you want...well, nearly...and we have very good qualities for being teachers, as we are resilient and we know what makes learning easier for kids with learning difficulties. Don't try top create all your resources, as it will take you ages and there will be mistakes in them, loads of resources available on tes website and others (check yahoo groups). This will save you time. Also, it's a bit of luck what placements you get for your practice, if you get nice inclusive schools, you'll be lucky, if not, you'll b f****d. I know I'm being really crude, but that's how it is. Now, if you pass it, it is one of the most rewarding jobs ever...and if you have a good raport with our students, it is soooooo gr8!. I think it is worth trying. If by any chance you want to drop out, don't feel bad about yourself, even people with out SEN find it hard.
Hope this helps, not sure

[agsiul]

I completely agree. That's why I asked about why you were keen to do it. I agree with all of what Eva said and if you did find that it was too much for you I'd look into teaching TEFL. There isn't as much written work if you choose carefully and it is also very rewarding especially if you can travel. You need to choose carefully though because the pay can be excelent or desperately low. What the other poster said is right. The problem with the work is that it never ends

[Pixie123]

Thanks for the advice guys! I am really keen to teach and I don't think the amount of paperwork will bother me- I did an MA in English and had to cope with words/paperwork all the time! But I'm thinking I should at least try... and hopefully i will pass!!

[meow]

Good luck.

[agsiul]

Good luck

[Evasura]

ditto

[klawson11]

hi, I am dyspraxic and i'm doing my primary PGCE at the min, I do not agree with anyone saying not to do something just because your dyspraxic, I am going to be finishing my pgce in 5 weeks time. I have worked a lot harder than anyone else on my course but it is do able. I applied for disability student allowance and have been given a lot of things to help me which have been invaluable. If you really want to do it then go for it. Yes there is a lot of work but i am determined and if you are too you will be great. Make sure your lecturers and placement schools know about it, i have found they are all very accommodating and will want to help. I think Deffo go for it!!!

[Khoardiroy]

If it is any comfort, I am dyspraxic. I undertook a PGCE in English, eventually added Drama. Became a Department Head and now lecture in a teaching faculty in University and I am completing a PhD. We're just people who spill things, break things, can't do sports and have weird quirks - but do have brains.

[Captain_Ludd]

If you want it bad enough you'll get it, not gonna be easy but stick it out!
Good Luck .

[mackhilton01]

I think you have a great idea to be an English teacher but before become an English teacher you must be professionalism in English.

[Tim G]

What we can and can't do depends on diffrent people and how they are affected by dyspraxicia - some are more affected then others and others less etc.

I think that since you compleated a MA and degree i think you will be ok with the PGCE but I would strongly recomend getting as much help as you can via the Dysabled students allowance, study support at the unie (if avaiable).

Most of all work hard and good luck