Meet Our Teacher Training Subject Specialists: Secondary English PGCE

Here at the University of Huddersfield, our Teacher Training courses are designed to equip future educators with the skills, knowledge and practical experience they need to thrive in the classroom. A key part of that success is the expertise and passion of our subject specialists.

In this blog, our English PGCE Lead, Julian White, shares what makes Huddersfield’s approach distinctive, how subject-specific weeks help trainees connect theory to practice, and the advice he gives to those preparing to teach English - a subject that is intellectually, emotionally and culturally rich.

What makes the Secondary PGCE at Huddersfield distinctive for English?

Our focus is on developing practice that is empathic, critical, enjoyable and inspiring.

During our subject-specific weeks, we work collaboratively to develop skills and knowledge, with a key focus on:

• Classroom talk
• The role of knowledge in learning
• Meaningful inclusion

These weeks give trainees the time and space to explore what great English teaching looks like and how to make it happen in real classrooms.

How do subject-specific weeks help trainees connect theory to practice?

Our approach is about balance. We draw on the New Science of Education approaches, but we also synthesise these with dialogic and constructive methods.

The aim is to develop rounded practitioners who can combine evidence-based strategies with creative, inclusive approaches that engage learners and foster critical thinking.

What are the key opportunities available through training to teach English?

Teaching English is intellectually, emotionally and physically demanding. It is also culturally sensitive, which means trainees need to navigate complex ideas and diverse perspectives with care.

Support for trainees is centred on who they are as individuals and what they bring to the course. Mutual respect is essential, and we work hard to create a collaborative, inclusive environment where everyone feels valued.

What do you hope trainees take away from their time with you?

I hope they leave feeling inspired to help young people find their way in our complicated world. Teaching has the power to change lives, and English teachers are uniquely placed to make that happen.