General Course
Overview
The General Course Program at Bondolfi Teachers’ College is tailored to cater for post ‘O’ level student teachers who are embarking on a three-year pre-service journey towards obtaining a Diploma in Education (Primary) with a specialization in primary education for Grade 4 to Grade 7. Following the well-structured 3-3-3 teacher education model, this program comprises three distinct phases: the initial three terms of residential study, followed by three terms of practicum experience, and culminating in a final three terms of residential study.
This comprehensive course delves into the fundamental pillars of primary education, offering a robust foundation in Psychology of Education and Inclusive Education, Philosophy of Education and Curriculum Issues, and Sociology of Education and Educational Administration. In addition, it equips aspiring educators with the skills, knowledge, attitudes, and values essential for facilitating learning in a wide spectrum of subjects, including Mathematics/Science, Agriculture, and English/Shona, specifically tailored to meet the diverse needs of Grade 3 to Grade 7 students.
Our department also extends its offerings to encompass subjects such as National Strategic Studies, Health and Life Skills, and Information Communication Technology, providing a well-rounded and up-to-date curriculum that prepares student teachers for the evolving demands of the modern education landscape.
The syllabus within the General Course Program is meticulously crafted to empower student teachers with both theoretical and practical insights into primary education. It instills the necessary competencies required to become effective educators for learners in Grade 4-7 in diverse educational contexts.
At Bondolfi Teachers’ College, we take pride in nurturing educators who are not only academically proficient but also compassionate, innovative, and adaptable. Our General Course Program stands as a testament to our commitment to producing educators who will shape the minds and futures of the next generation of learners, from Grade 3 to Grade 7, in various educational settings.
Nature of the Programme
Theory of Education
This syllabus provides fundamentals which guide the student teacher to establish the link between theory and practice of education. It helps teachers develop the basis for understanding human behaviour, with particular emphasis on the primary school child.
Professional Studies Syllabus A (PSA)
PSA is designed to guide the student teacher to have general knowledge of school administration and management as well as classroom management and teaching skills.
Professional Studies Syllabus B (PSB)
The syllabi are intended to equip the student with obligatory knowledge, skills, attitudes and values that enable him/her to become a competent teacher in the subjects taught in the primary school. PSB consists of subject content, subject methodology, assessment, monitoring and evaluation, scheming , planning and records, and peer and microteaching. The subjects covered include : English, ChiShona, Mathematics, Science and Technology, Agriculture, Visual and Performing Arts, Physical Education, Sport and Mass Displays, Heritage Studies and LOP (Social Studies), Information and Communication Technology , and Religious and Moral Education.
Professional Studies Syllabus C (PSC)
The syllabus enables the student to carry out a scientific self-reflective enquiry into issues faced during practicum.
Professional Studies Syllabus D (PSD) (NASS, HLS AND ICT)
The subjects are intended to inculcate in the students a deep sense of patriotism, a desire to partake in national development programmes and to preserve the country’s sovereignty. The student is then acquainted with health and life skills which are deemed necessary in the management of school system. The student also equipped with the ICT skills.
Main Study
The student can make a choice of a subject of interest from the following ones: ChiShona, English, Mathematics, Social Studies, Environmental Science, Art and Design, Music, Physical Education, Religious and Moral Education and Home Economics. The major emphasis is to develop in the student a deeper and wider understanding in the chosen subject.
Practicum
The teaching practice stint is intended to enable students to practice teaching and caring for children of the age range. The students have a feel of record keeping, class and classroom management, scheming and planning and designing and administering assessment tools.
Head Of Departments
TOE & Teaching Practice
Mr. E. Mabhiza
Academic & Professional Studies
Mrs. R. Magomo