CPCE launches four new training programmes for teachers

CPCE launches four new training programmes for teachers

The Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) has launched four new programmes, as it continues its work to transform teacher training and education countrywide. The new programmes are Health and Family Life Education, Literacy Studies, Special Education Needs and Disabilities Education, and General Teachers Education.

At the launching this morning, Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand said the launch of the programmes is an important step in meeting the needs of both educators and students.

She explained that in the case of the General Teachers Education Programme, it provides teachers who have been in the education system for an long period, an opportunity to complete a certificate programme within one year.

“So, you have a degree in Chemistry and you have been teaching for 30 years, am I going to ask that teacher to come back to CPCE for two years? That was stupid and would not make any sense. They already were teaching, and maybe they need some methodology. They have been teaching for 30 years and getting results. So, we crafted a programme…where teacher can come back in and get methodology teaching not content,” Minister Manickchand explained.

She said the other programmes, in particular the Special Education Needs and Disabilities Education Programme, will promote a high level of inclusive education, as the country moves to construct its first deaf school.

CPCE’s Vice Principal for Curriculum, Nicola Tyndall-Pantlitz, said the programmes are in keeping with CPCE’s vision for inclusive and equitable education.

She said the Health and Family Life Education, as well as the other three programmes are aligned with the Education Sector Plan 2021-2025.

“Health and Family Life Education focus on equipping teachers to deliver holistic education that nurtures students’ physical, emotional, and social wellbeing,” Tyndall-Pantlitz said.

She further explained that the programme will soon be expanded to all of CPCE’s satellite centres. It was also explained that the Literacy Studies Programme is designed to address literacy challenges in Guyana, particularly among the student population.

“This programme equips teachers with specialized strategies to improve reading, writing and comprehension skills, particularly in the underserved and rural areas. By focusing on foundational literacy, this programme aims to reduce disparities and promote lifelong learning,” Tyndall-Pantlitz explained.

Meanwhile, the Special Education Needs and Disabilities Education is designed to promote exclusive education practices and provide all students with the access to quality education.

The first cohort from the programme graduated last October.

The General Teachers Education programme, which could be completed within a year, is designed for subject degree holders. It is intended to fast track the preparation of highly skilled educators who are equipped to meet the demands of modern classrooms.

CPCE’s Vice Principal – Curriculum said the launch of the programmes is a pivotal step in transforming teacher training and education nationwide by focusing on health, literacy studies, inclusivity in education, and professional development.

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