Portobello Institute

New – Postgraduate Certificate in Education International – PGCEi

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Course Details

This is a postgraduate certificate, internationally recognised as an advanced level of study and qualification for those wishing to enhance their practice and advance to more senior positions in teaching and educational management, in education organisations and international schools

Level
Postgraduate
Qualification
Level 9 Certificate
Course Delivery Mode Start Date Duration
Course
 Postgraduate Certificate in Education International - PGCEi 		Delivery Mode
Blended Learning
 Start Date
 23rd September 2023 		Duration
 3 academic semesters

Overview

The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (International) commonly known as a PGCEi, is an academic qualification, with a philosophy informed by the Teaching Council of Ireland and the Teachers’ Standards (DfE, UK).

Deepen your knowledge in teaching and learning

This dynamic and relevant programme will appeal to those interested in deepening their knowledge and expertise in teaching and learning, and in developing an understanding of educational issues, challenges and innovative approaches to practice in multiple contexts. You will advance your knowledge, understanding and professional practice through engagement with current research and thinking. It also involves a reflection on, and analysis of, your own professional practice, supporting your personal development as well as putting you in a strong position for career progression as an educator.

Develop as an educator

The programme focuses on your development as an educator and an educational professional at all levels. The content and specialised online learning approach is designed to provide a rich, stimulating, and individualised learning experience.  This post-graduate programme aims to facilitate an exploration and understanding of the concepts, issues, policies and legislation pertaining to education.

While practice observations are not a requirement of this programme, experience in an educational setting is critical and a suitable placement will need to be completed if you are not currently in related practice.

Balance study with work and home

The model of online delivery is based on a linear structure, with each module delivered over 12 weeks. Students take one module at a time, commencing a new module upon completion of the previous one. You will have the option to take time off between modules; providing flexibility to balance study, work and family commitments.

Here are some reasons to choose to study with Portobello:

  • Career focused qualifications – our courses lead to awards that offer you the opportunity to immediately advance your career.
  • Individualised support – we fit your learning model with support available when you need it throughout your learning journey.
  • Industry expert tutors – our tutors are all experienced in the field of education connecting research and theory with practice throughout their lectures.
  • Condensed scheduling – we value your time by ensuring your timetable is optimised for delivery, helping you maintain a work/life/study balance.
  • Flexible delivery – we deliver theory sessions online whilst also recording the session simultaneously offering you a choice of when and how you learn.
  • Affordable payment options – all our courses offer you the option to choose an easy payment plan supporting you to spread the cost out over your learning journey.

Why should I study this course?

Portobello Institute’s PGCEi gives you the opportunity to attain a level 9 postgraduate qualification through a flexible mode of delivery designed to fit learning around your busy working and home life.

This PGCEi programme aims to:

  • Develop informed, knowledgeable, outstanding teachers and related professionals, espousing creativity and research informed teaching through deliberate practice.
  • Develop students’ critical reflection and reflexivity within the field of education and schooling, through analysis, synthesis and evaluation of evidence, theory and practice.
  • Enable students to access, assess and effectively apply educational research, advanced scholarship and new insights from the discipline of education (and other related disciplines) in the classroom/learning environment.
  • Develop an understanding of the factors that influence effective, inclusive curriculum design and pedagogy and impact on pupils/learners.
  • Provide opportunity for students to achieve their full academic potential at Level 9, through study encouraging self-motivation, self-awareness and application of initiative.
  • Encourage professional accountability informed by an understanding of evidence-based practice.

"Better than a thousand days of diligent study is one day with a great teacher"

- Japanese Proverb

Who will recognise my qualification?

Upon completing this level 9 degree, you will hold a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (International) awarded by Liverpool John Moore’s University (LJMU).

The programme design, content and philosophy draws on some existing postgraduate education syllabus and pedagogy, and significant knowledge and expertise in the School of Education at LJMU. The School has a reputation for excellence, regionally and nationally, with a growing profile for innovative research and quality in teaching internationally. The most recent inspection by OFSTED rated LJMU as ‘Outstanding’ in Primary Teaching and ‘Good, with Outstanding features’ in Secondary.

Globally recognised academic qualification in education sectors

The PGCEi seeks to reflect the local and international contexts of a postgraduate academic qualification in education, and is a recognised academic qualification in education sectors internationally. The PGCEi programme’s design and philosophy is informed by the Teachers’ Standards (DfE, UK), QAA Benchmark for Education Studies and Master’s Degree Characteristics (QAA).

This PGCEi is a postgraduate award globally recognised as an advanced level of study and qualification for those wishing to enhance their practice and advance to more senior positions in teaching and educational management, in education organisations and in international schools.

You will be registered as a student of LJMU for the duration of your studies.

Qualifications Frameworks in Ireland and the UK

The Irish and UK qualifications authorities have collaborated on initiatives that promote the transparency, recognition and mobility of qualifications between our respective jurisdictions. The qualifications authorities in the UK and Ireland have agreed the qualifications frameworks in operation, Brexit will not impact this agreement. Further guidance on this framework is available here.

What will I study during this New – Postgraduate Certificate in Education International – PGCEi course?

Both LJMU and Portobello Institute aim to deliver transformative education, which is marked by inquiry, discovery and creative dialogue between students and staff.  There is a natural synergy between LJMU’s curriculum design and pedagogies for excellence in teaching, learning and assessment in the programme, and the approaches and philosophy of Portobello Institute.

An inclusive and accessible academic environment

Cultivating an inclusive and accessible academic environment for all sections of society is articulated in both institutions’ visions and embedded in the proposed programme’s philosophy and learning journey for students interested in socially just, transformative policies, concepts and research-informed practices in education and educational contexts.

An international programme with localised context

The curriculum design and pedagogy is intended to offer a coherent academic experience. Academics from the LJMU School of Education have extensive experience of curriculum and assessment design, along with expertise in a range of education contexts and critical understanding of theories and philosophies of education and educational contexts.

This is an international programme; the use of culturally appropriate practice scenarios, policy critiques and case studies have been integrated throughout the programme, so that these are examined in local educational contexts.

  • Theories & Principles in Education, Teaching & Learning

    This module will support you to deepen knowledge and critical understanding of principles and theories relating to education, teaching and learning. To identify and apply strategies and methods which translate into effective teaching, learning and assessment practices in the educational environment.

    Learning Outcomes

    After completing the module the student will be able to:

    • Identify and critically discuss a range of educational theories, principles and
      pedagogical approaches in relation to education, teaching and learning.
    • Critically evaluate personal educational practices, synthesising relevant theories
      and considering implications for practice in your own professional environment.
    • Evidence planning, delivery and critical evaluation of innovative teaching, learning
      and assessment strategies.
  • Inclusive Pedagogy & Evidencing Impact on Learners

    This module will support you to develop knowledge and understanding of issues and barriers to learning and recognise dilemmas of access and equity in education in order to inform effective
    strategies for learning; with particular emphasis on inclusive pedagogy as a framework for teacher development.

    Learning Outcomes

    After completing the module the student should be able to:

    • Distinguish between, and evaluate, different perspectives and proposed responses
      to educational and social problems/issues that can affect learning and progression.
    • Critically evaluate notions of transformative learning and how these may relate to
      principles of social justice.
    • Interpret and critically appraise own resourcefulness and application of
      professional curiosity and inquiry to enable inclusive pedagogy for teacher
      development and practice.
    • Develop, implement and evaluate strategies to support positive educational
      experiences and outcomes for all learners.
  • Critical Reflection and Developing Practice

    This module will support you to critically examine different perspectives, models and theories of reflective practice and reflexivity, and consider implications for your own professional practice.
    It will also support growth of personal and professional development through critical
    evaluation of learning and reflection on experience in your teaching and promoting a
    leadership stance in your practice.

    Learning Outcomes

    After completing the module the student will be able to:

    • Critically explore theories and concepts relevant to reflection, reflexivity and
      personal and professional development in the context of educational practice
    • Review, analyse and critically evaluate your own role(s) as an educational
      professional and plan appropriate strategies to develop in this area
    • Evidence your ability to support and promote learner experience through
      mentoring and/or leading others

Who will I learn from?

Programme Manager

Derek Fox

Derek Fox is a man whose experience spans many industries. He leads Portobello Institute’s MSc in Aviation Management and brings a wealth of experience to the role.

He has worked directly with companies such as Aer Lingus and the Dublin Aviation Authority, playing a key part in providing consultancy and strategic advice during an important transitional period for the airline.

He is a lead facilitator and director of DFLeap consulting and has previously worked as a senior specialist in the area of management, leadership and communications with the IMI (Irish Management Institute).

With over 30 years’ experience in learning design, management, coaching and development he has spent 15 years in a large multinational corporation and has worked in both business and academia across Europe, Asia, and America.

“I began my career as an Engineer but became passionately involved in Psychology in my twenties. This led me to work as a trainer/lecturer in leadership and management where I enjoy working with individuals and organisations to unlock their full potential.

“I have published a number of books including the popular ‘Discovering your Style and Dealing with Difficult People’ and am a regular contributor to business and press publications,” he said.

Derek is the program leader of our MSc in Aviation Management so students will get the chance to learn from him in key areas such as “understanding how to do a dissertation, what ethical research is, how to develop research questions and objectives, selecting appropriate methodologies to inform and address your answering of the research question and how to draw conclusions based on your primary research. Not to mention statistical analysis,” he said.

Derek is ambitious for his students and the opportunities Aviation Management can bring to their careers.

“We have students across multiple sectors of the aviation industry. Our aim is to reach aviation sectors like engineering, fleet management, fleet rentals, all that kind of stuff, on top of airlines and airport operations.

 

Qualifications Held

  • MSc Organisational Behaviour
  • MA Psychology
  • BA People Management
  • Level A and B Psychometrics
  • CiPD Certificate in Training Practice
  • Sports Psychology
  • Master Trainer Program

Personal Academic Tutor

Each student is assigned a personal academic tutor to support you throughout your learning journey. They are available to offer you telephone and email support at any time. You can arrange to meet them for further one to one guidance at a time convenient to you.

Many of our past graduates have found it is the opportunity to ask a simple question, seek direction and submit a draft of their assessment that supported them most successful completion. Emailing your tutor at any stage during your programme to ask a query or submit a draft of your assessment supports you to achieve your personal best throughout your studies with Portobello.

This level of one to one support is a particular benefit to choosing Portobello as your Institute of choice to complete your studies.

Mariana Cabral Familiar

Position: Tutor

“Teaching from the heart is the way to touch the heart of the students, and this becomes magic that allows you to achieve wonderful things.”

About Mariana Cabral Familiar 

My name is Mariana, I am Mexican and I have been a psychologist and teacher for more than 12 years. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work in different areas of psychology such as clinical psychology, special educational needs, and organisational psychology, and undoubtedly in which I found my vocation was education, so I decided to study for a master’s degree in teaching, which allowed me to improve my work as a teacher.  

Later, after working in various institutions, began to emerge in me a great interest in the study of the well-being of people, that’s when I started to explore the positive Psychology applied, and in 2017 I took flight and moved to Spain to study a master’s in Positive Psychology Applied, this exciting area of psychology is responsible for the study of the positive traits of people, positive experiences, human strengths, emotional education and flourishing, among others. This decision definitely changed my life, as it allowed me to acquire important tools and resources that have significantly enriched my practice as a teacher. In this process, I had the opportunity to be trained by professionals of international stature such as Rafael Bisquerra, Pablo Fernandez Berrocal, Marisa Salanova, Margarita Tarragona, among other outstanding researchers in the field of Positive Psychology.  

I am currently working on my doctoral thesis in the field of education, my degree project is a programme for the development of emotional competencies in teachers.

Mariana’s Teaching Philosophy

My path in teaching began more than 10 years ago, during which I have had the opportunity to work in different public and private institutions in face-to-face, b-learning and e-learning modalities, at high school, university and master’s levels. 

In my work as a teacher, it is fundamental that in each module the expected learning is achieved, but it is also very important that the teacher connects with the students and makes them see the great potential they have and above all that they feel supported, in this way the probability that they reach their goals is greater. 

My teaching approach is based on constructivist theory, I use students’ previous experiences and everyday examples for better assimilation of content and to achieve meaningful learning. In my teaching work, it is essential that students acquire the expected learning of each subject, and develop cognitive skills, but also develop emotional competencies. 

Nowadays, companies need staff with a solid academic background, however, there is another element that organisations are increasingly looking for in their collaborators, and that is emotional competencies, as it has been proven that they improve people’s performance and productivity, some of these competencies are: the ability to communicate effectively, to work collaboratively, to be resilient, creative, adaptable, empathetic, assertive, compassionate. As is evident, these competencies are not formally taught in most curricula. Personally, my teaching practice includes emotional education in a transversal way, ensuring that students are aware and interested in the subject and realise the importance of these competencies for their professional and personal well-being. 

There are two phrases that express my feelings about my work as a teacher: 

“Freedom is doing what you like, and liking what you do is happiness” 

and 

“Choose a job you like, and you will never have to work a day in your life”  

Therefore, I am happy and I do what I am passionate about, dedicating myself to education.

Qualifications 

  • Bachelor degree in Psychology 
  • Master in Teaching 
  • Master in Positive Psychology Applied 
  • PHD Education (Candidate)  

Research / Industry Participation 

  • Anorexia and bulimia, a proposal for an ERT-based intervention programme for teenagers.  
  • Emotional education programme for students at the University Jaume I 
  • Evaluation of an emotional education programme for Mexican teachers 

How will I learn?

Delivery Mode

This PGCEi has been specifically designed for delivery by online learning, with one to one tutorial support and modular webinars designed specifically to prepare you to complete the module. It is very suited to you if you are working full-time with limited spare time yet you want to achieve your postgraduate qualification.

Each module commences with an induction webinar and you will meet your lead lecturer during this session.  You will be able to log-in and “attend” the lecture even if you are off-site or you can re-visit the lecture at a later date through our online portal. You can upload your assessments and your lecturer will give you feedback on whether you are on the right track before you submit the final version.

What is a webinar?

A webinar, in the context of online learning, is a lecturer delivering a presentation or class online to a group of students. We use specifically designed e-learning software so you can participate in the class just as if you were present in the same room. You can ask a question of the lecturer at any stage during the class.

Interactive break-out rooms

The software is designed with “break-out rooms” where you can discuss a topic or complete a group exercise with a smaller group from your class. You will need a computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone that has internet connection, an audio facility so you can hear and speak during the class and a camera so your lecturer and fellow class participants can see you.

Secure online learning environment

The webinar is a secure online environment and only those permitted entry by the lecturer can gain access to the “classroom”. Webinars are recorded during each session and should you miss a session, you can catch up with the recorded session at a later date. You will only be able to access Webinars of the group you are assigned to.

Tutor Support

You can email your tutor during the module to ask a simple query or submit a draft of your assessment. Our programme management team are available to offer you telephone and email support and if you need to, you can arrange to meet them for further one to one guidance.

For more information about our team, click here. Portobello Institute has invested in a team of programme managers and tutors who are experienced early years practitioners as well as qualified and knowledgeable educators. They are available to assist you during your learning journey through this programme.

Online Learning Portal

During the induction webinar, we will show you how to navigate and find what you need with all of the information you need to complete this programme uploaded on to the learning portal. The content of this programme is set out in an easy to follow format with a combination of notes, articles, podcasts and other materials that will help you to understand the subject and complete your assessment. You will need basic computer skills to search the internet and type a word document to complete your assignment.

Peer to Peer Support

Learning from the experience of other students is often cited as an integral part of any learning journey through a programme. This programme is conducted primarily online and to achieve peer to peer learning, we create study groups. This is a group of students either with a similar research interest or located regionally for ease of “meeting up”. Many graduates tell us that the relationships they build in their study group, offers them a professional network to tap into through out their careers as well as some lifelong friendships.

Course Structure

This course is delivered over 3 semesters with supported webinars held during scheduled weekends. This programme consists of three core modules. You will complete one module in each semester.

Each module has 2 *  one day webinars designed to support the student to complete the modules scheduled for that semester. Webinars are generally held on a Saturday from 10am to 4pm. Attendance at webinars is recommended for an optimal learning experience and achievement. Webinars are delivered with the purpose of introducing the module lecturer, setting out the learning outcomes, content, the assessment strategy and expectations for skills/knowledge development.

All of the course material is held on an online learning portal which is an easy to use online platform specifically designed for online learning programmes. During the induction, students will be introduced to the platform with practical demonstration of how to use the portal and access lessons quickly and easily. To complete this course, students must have a basic knowledge of using a computer and searching the internet for research purposes.

 

THE ACADEMIC CALENDAR

Semester 1 will run from 23/09/23 – 17/12/23

Semester 2 will run from 13/01/24 – 06/04/24

Semester 3 will run from 20/04/24 – 06/07/24

A FLEXIBLE LEARNING JOURNEY

Webinars are held on scheduled Saturdays from 10am – 4pm with breaks at intervals throughout the session.

The schedule of webinars is generally a maximum of 2 per semester with a webinar held on the start date of the semester.

Webinar sessions are recorded should you be unable to attend.

Downloads

Course Delivery Mode
Course
 Postgraduate Certificate in Education International - PGCEi 		Delivery Mode
Blended Learning
 Download Brochure

Speak to an expert

Choosing a course that will lead you to your career of choice is a significant decision. Understanding the delivery modes, supports available, career opportunities and further study options are all key considerations when making your choice. Our course adviser team are experts in the courses Portobello offers, the employment prospects and possible progression routes to Masters programmes – they will guide you through the detail and support you with any queries you may have.

It is important you make the right choice for you and choose the Institute and course that will best suit your needs.

Your Consultant

Jay Lester

About

As the Sports Admissions Advisor, I work with students from our sports departments. I get to play a vital part in the advancement of peoples lives and career ambitions from supporting students at the start of their journey through education, taking that forward with them as a lifelong passion and desire. Knowledge is key and I carry this message to all who have an interest in joining any of our sports courses.

What do you enjoy about working in Portobello?  

Being in admissions for the sports department you are lucky because not only do you play a vital part in the student’s life by way of providing clear advice on courses you also get to know the students and understand their visions from the very first interaction.

What inspires you about working in education?  

Education has always been a passion of mine as I do firmly believe that with the knowledge and skills for our desired careers, we can really go on to accomplish anything in life. I don’t believe that barriers shouldn’t exist when it comes to education, and I like to ensure nobody else feels they should either.

Have you a story that you recall that touched you/made you laugh/made you cry? 

Many of us can recall that one person be it an old schoolteacher or a college tutor who took that extra bit of interest in us, I believe these occurrences are pivotal. I’ve been fortunate enough in life to see the impact education and a second chance can do for people this attracted me into the career I have today.

Why do you want to help students to decide on their course choice?  

I love being a source of support and guidance for students as they navigate through the learning world. Portobello Institute is a special place to do this. I feel very fortunate to work alongside such a dedicated and warm-hearted team and love the dynamic and accommodating environment provided to meet everyone’s needs at every step of their journey.

Book a consultation

How do I apply?

Entry to this postgraduate certificate is by direct application to Portobello Institute.

There are entry criteria available to students with differing qualifications however students must hold a relevant honours degree (at least 2:2) and it is preferable you work in an educational environment.

Application Process

Step 1

Complete the online booking form.

Step 2

Applicants will be contacted for confirmation/evidence of meeting the entry criteria and year of entry will be confirmed.

Step 3

Confirmation of a place will be given to applicants immediately meeting the criteria.

Please note places on this course are restricted and places only confirmed once tuition fees have been received. Early Application is advised.

Fees & Payment Options

Fees

Course Price

Year 1 base fee

€4,785

Exam Body Reg. Fee

€235.00

Overall Course Price

Total amount due

€5,020.00

Easy Payment Plan

Payment Option 1

33% deposit payment (€1,777.05), followed by 8 scheduled payments on the first of each month, commencing the 1st of the month after the start date of the course. Includes one off instalment fee of €365.

  • €450.99 due in month 1
  • €450.99 due in month 2
  • €450.99 due in month 3
  • €450.99 due in month 4
  • €450.99 due in month 5
  • €450.99 due in month 6
  • €450.99 due in month 7
  • €450.99 due in month 8
Ready to apply? View Downloads Speak to an expert

Available Courses

Course Delivery Mode Start Date Duration Fees Per Year
Course
 Postgraduate Certificate in Education International - PGCEi 		Delivery Mode
Blended Learning
 Start Date
 23rd September 2023 		Duration
 3 academic semesters 		Fees Per Year
 €5,020.00

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