PGCE Secondary PE

We look forward to welcoming you to your interview at Plymouth Marjon University. The interview is an important part of the application process - it allows us to assess your suitability for the programme you have applied for, and it also gives you the opportunity to decide whether Marjon is the right place for you to study. Our PGCE Secondary PE Interview Days are held in person and are shared with our BEd Secondary Education - Physical Education course. 

If you attend an in-person interview day you will have the opportunity to: 

• Have a tour of the university campus 

• Find out more about the PGCE course 

• Complete a series of interview tasks designed to explore your knowledge, skills, and motivation for teaching 

• Meet current Students and learn about student life at Marjon 

 

Interview tasks

Formal Interview (15 - 20 minutes per interviewee) 

This will include questions on: 

• The role of a teacher and the key qualities needed to be effective 

• Your understanding of teaching and learning in secondary education 

• Safeguarding and child welfare responsibilities, including safer recruitment questions 

• Communication skills and ability to build positive relationships 

• Subject knowledge and enthusiasm for your specialist area 

• Awareness of effective teaching and learning practices 

• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all learners 

 

Practical Activity (10 minutes per interviewee) 

Candidates will be given a 10-minute practical activity to teach to a small group of students in the sports hall. The task will be provided on the day. Please bring suitable clothing and trainers. You will be given time to change on the day. 

 

Subject Knowledge Self-Assessment (To be completed prior to interview) 

Please find your relevant subject self-assessment form and complete it prior to interview. Please scan/photograph and send to interviews@marjon.ac.uk 

PE Self-Assessment 

 

Scenario Writing Task (20 minutes per interviewee) 

You will complete a short scenario-based activity designed to explore how you approach the varied responsibilities of a trainee teacher. You will be given a realistic school-based situation and asked to consider how you would prioritise tasks, respond appropriately and explain the reasoning behind your decisions. Full instructions will be provided on the day. 

 

Recommended preparation

To prepare for your interview, we recommend that you: 

• Research the National Curriculum (Key Stages 3, 4 and 5) 

•  Familiarise yourself with Keeping Children Safe in Education 

• Get to Know the Teachers Standards 

•  Stay informed about current issues and policy developments in education 

• Know the professional role of the teacher https://getintoteaching.education.gov.uk/ 

 

What to bring with you (in person)

• Photo ID 

• Any resources (physical or digital) you may need for your presentation 

 

Schedule for the day (in person)

Please note timings can vary depending on how many candidates are in attendance. 

08:30 - 09:00 arrive at The Welcome Desk and register with our Student Ambassadors 

09:00 - 09:45 Welcome Talk and refreshments 

09:45 - 11:30 Practical teaching task  

11:30 - 12:00 Student Ambassador Led Campus Tour  

12:00 - 15:00 Individual interviews/written task 

15:00 - End of the Interview Day