Getting Started with the Primary Quality Mark
You can start working towards a Primary Geography Quality Mark at any time, in fact a significant part of the process takes place before you register. This timeline gives an overview of the PGQM from start to finish including ideas of what you could be doing when.
First Steps
If you wish to apply for the Quality Mark you must register by 31 October, but this is by no means the start of your PGQM journey. There are various things you should do to in advance of registering:
- Check on your school's membership status - your school must be a member of the GA to register for the award. You can join online or by calling GA HQ on 0114 296 0088.
- Once you have your GA membership in place, browse Primary Geography to gain ideas and find out what teachers are focusing on at the moment.
- If you don't already have a copy, we recommend that you purchase the Primary Geography Handbook, the essential guide to teaching geography in primary schools.
- Browse the primary geography advice on the GA website - Geography Subject Leaders and Geography from Square One are good starting points.
- Read through the information on the PGQM front page to find out more about the award. The PowerPoint presentations at the top of the page provide a very useful introduction to the PGQM.
- Join the Geographical Association Ning - a free networking website for teachers. Then join the PGQM group and contribute to discussions.
- Make contact with a Primary Geography Champion, many have been involved with the PGQM and are a useful source of support. Join the Champions Ning to find your local Champ and engage with other teachers in your area.
- If you are a GA member you can request access to the password protected VLE to see examples of previous schools' applications and additional guidance for participating schools. Contact Julie Beattie (0114 296 0088) to set up an account.
- Think about attending one of the GA's CPD courses for primary teachers.
- Ask your head if you can pay for a Consultant to advise you prior to registration. The fee for a half day consultation is £200 (full day £400). Contact Julie Beattie for a list of available consultants with whom you can personally arrange a visit.
- If you're struggling to raise funds to apply for the Quality Mark, why not try approaching local businesses for sponsorship?
Preparing for registration
The basic PGQM introductory paperwork is available below, however we recommend that you sign up for the PGQM VLE in order to gain access to the full set of documentation. Contact Julie Beattie for your free username and password (GA members only).
Introduction (PDF, 298k) - This document summarises the award process and answers some of your frequently asked questions.
Timeline (PDF, 89k) - The timeline gives an overview of the PGQM from start to finish including ideas of what you could be doing when.
Your journey towards the Primary Geography Quality Mark (PDF, 606k) - A visual guide demonstrating the typical PGQM timescales.
Once you've read up on the Primary Quality Mark, gained approval from your headteacher and made sure your school's GA membership is up to date, it's time to start thinking about geography in your school.
Registering for the Quality Mark
Once you've engaged with all the documentation, carried out an audit, prepared your action plan and decided which level of the award to go for, you're ready to register!
Registration Form (Word, 40k) - Complete and return this form together with the appropriate registration fee to Julie Beattie at the Geographical Association (full address on form).
Current Round: You must register for Round 11 by 31 October 2012. Award applications must be submitted by April 2013.
Don't forget - your school must be a GA member to register for the PGQM.
Previous PGQM Awardees
The Primary Geography Quality Mark lasts for three years. If you have already achieved the PGQM and wish to attain continued status of the award it is recommended that you adhere to the timeframes below:
Round 7 & 8 - Re-register by the end of October 2012 for Round 11, submit your evidence in April 2013 and you will be notified of your award by October 2013. Re-registration deadline reminders will be sent to all previous award winners.
Support
If you need professional advice please contact Paula Owens. For all other enquiries concerning the PGQM contact Julie Beattie at GA Headquarters.
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