The International Postgraduate Certificate in Education (IPGCE) is a globally recognised qualification that equips educators with the skills and knowledge to deliver high-quality teaching. The programme is underpinned by ten teaching standards, designed to ensure the highest level of education. These standards, which we’ll explore in this blog, are the backbone of the IPGCE and are instrumental in maintaining its reputation for excellence.
1. Set High Expectations Which Inspire, Motivate and Challenge Pupils
First and foremost, IPGCE educators are expected to set high expectations for their students. This isn’t about pushing students to their limits, but rather about inspiring them to aim high and achieve their potential. It’s akin to a coach encouraging an athlete to strive for their personal best. The goal is not just to improve academic performance but also to foster a love for learning and a strong work ethic.
These high expectations should also challenge pupils, encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones. This is where the real learning happens. It’s like learning to ride a bike – you don’t truly learn until you take off the training wheels and face the challenge head-on.
2. Promote Good Progress and Outcomes by Pupils
Secondly, IPGCE educators are tasked with promoting good progress and outcomes. This is a bit like a gardener nurturing a plant – providing the right conditions for it to grow and flourish. In the classroom, this means providing a supportive learning environment, delivering engaging lessons, and giving constructive feedback.
It also involves tracking students’ progress to ensure they are on the right path. This is similar to a GPS tracking a journey – it helps to identify any detours or roadblocks and provides guidance to get back on track.
3. Demonstrate Good Subject and Curriculum Knowledge
Thirdly, a deep understanding of the subject and curriculum is vital. This is the foundation upon which effective teaching is built. It’s like a chef knowing their ingredients – you can’t create a delicious meal without knowing what you’re working with.
But it’s not just about knowing the facts. IPGCE educators are also expected to keep up-to-date with developments in their field, much like a doctor staying abreast of the latest medical research. This ensures that the teaching remains relevant and engaging.
4. Plan and Teach Well-Structured Lessons
Fourth on the list is the ability to plan and deliver well-structured lessons. This is akin to a director planning a movie – each scene must be carefully crafted and sequenced to create a compelling narrative. In the classroom, this means creating lessons that build on previous learning, engage students, and lead to clear learning outcomes.
It also involves being flexible and responsive to students’ needs. Like a jazz musician improvising a solo, an effective teacher can adapt their lesson on the fly to ensure all students are engaged and learning.
5. Adapt Teaching to Respond to the Strengths and Needs of All Pupils
Fifthly, IPGCE educators are expected to adapt their teaching to meet the needs of all students. This is like a tailor customising a suit – it’s about ensuring the teaching fits the learner, not the other way around. This involves differentiating instruction, providing additional support where needed, and challenging high-achieving students.
It also involves recognising and celebrating diversity in the classroom. Like a rainbow, a diverse classroom is a beautiful thing, and an effective teacher can harness this diversity to enrich the learning experience for all students.
6. Make Accurate and Productive Use of Assessment
Sixth on the list is the use of assessment. This isn’t about grading students, but rather about using assessment as a tool for learning. It’s like a mirror, reflecting back to the student their understanding and progress. This involves providing timely and constructive feedback, and using assessment data to inform teaching.
It also involves involving students in the assessment process. Like a coach reviewing a game with their team, an effective teacher can use assessment as a tool for reflection and improvement.
7. Manage Behaviour Effectively to Ensure a Good and Safe Learning Environment
Seventh, managing behaviour is a key part of the IPGCE. This is like a conductor leading an orchestra – it’s about creating harmony in the classroom and ensuring everyone is working together towards a common goal. This involves setting clear expectations, promoting respect and fairness, and dealing with issues promptly and effectively.
It also involves creating a safe and inclusive learning environment. Like a home, a classroom should be a place where all students feel welcome, valued, and safe to take risks and make mistakes.
8. Fulfil Wider Professional Responsibilities
Eighth, IPGCE educators are expected to fulfil wider professional responsibilities. This is like a citizen participating in their community – it’s about contributing to the school and the profession as a whole. This involves collaborating with colleagues, engaging with parents and the wider community, and participating in professional development.
It also involves acting as a role model for students. Like a lighthouse guiding ships, an effective teacher can inspire students not just academically, but also in terms of character and values.
9. Show Respect for All Pupils and Staff
Ninth, respect is a fundamental value in the IPGCE. This is like the golden rule – treating others as you would like to be treated. This involves showing respect for all students and staff, regardless of their background, beliefs, or abilities.
It also involves promoting a culture of respect in the classroom. Like a garden, a respectful classroom is a fertile ground for learning, where all students feel valued and heard.
10. Take Responsibility for Promoting High Standards of Literacy, Numeracy and ICT
Finally, IPGCE educators are expected to take responsibility for promoting high standards of literacy, numeracy, and ICT. This is like a builder laying the foundation for a house – these are the basic skills upon which all other learning is built. This involves integrating these skills into all areas of learning, and providing support for students who are struggling.
It also involves staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and pedagogies. Like a tech enthusiast keeping up with the latest gadgets, an effective teacher is always looking for new ways to enhance learning and engage students.
In conclusion, the ten teaching standards at the IPGCE are designed to ensure the highest quality of education. They are the guiding principles that underpin the programme and are instrumental in maintaining its reputation for excellence. Whether you’re an aspiring teacher or a seasoned educator, these standards provide a roadmap for effective teaching and continuous professional growth.
Advance Your Teaching Career with the iQTS at UWE
Building on the foundation of the IPGCE’s teaching standards, the International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) programme at UWE is your next step towards achieving excellence in education. If you’re among the many educators striving to meet the stringent qualification requirements of international schools, the iQTS can be the key to unlocking a 50% increase in interview callbacks. With a Level 7 qualification like the iQTS, you can anticipate a 45% rise in promotion rates and a significant 30% salary boost. Join a thriving community of professionals and expand your network by 300%, while gaining the flexibility to balance your career advancement with existing work commitments through our tailored online study options. Embrace the opportunity to become 65% more adaptable to global education systems and make your next step towards a fulfilling international teaching career. Make Your Next Step with the iQTS at UWE and transform your professional journey today.