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Need support delivering algorithms & programming for AQA or OCR GCSE computer science?

Teachers attending one of our York-based residentials

It’s nearly time for those all-important GCSE mock exams, and ahead of these taking place, we’re introducing two new and exciting residentials focusing on algorithms and programming. Each course is linked to the AQA and OCR GCSE computer science qualifications.  

Join us this December at the National STEM Centre in York, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn the subject knowledge required to deliver algorithms and programming to GCSE students. Awarding bodies approach how to represent algorithms and programming code in varying ways, and these 2-day residentials will focus solely on the correct representation for your awarding body.  

During the first day, you’ll explore how to read and represent multiple algorithms using flowcharts and pseudo code (aligned to your awarding body). During the second day, you’ll start exploring Python programming and the 3 main constructs: sequencing, selection and iteration. You’ll be guided throughout by one of our expert Professional Development Leaders.  

Throughout the residential, you’ll be able to focus on algorithms and programming with like-minded teachers, network with other teachers delivering the same GCSE specification, and share suitable teaching activities to support your delivery when returning to the classroom.  

Residentials at the National STEM Centre in York are free for teachers in state-funded schools in England. Meals and overnight accommodation are included for participants for the duration of the course. 

Both residentials form part of the Subject Knowledge Certificate, a programme which aims to support your subject knowledge and confidence to deliver up to and including GCSE computer science. Subsidies may also be available to support your time outside of the classroom. 

We look forward to seeing you in York, this December!  

Dates and booking information: 

Please click on the relevant dates below for full details and booking information: 

  • 6 and 7 December 2023 – Algorithms and programming for OCR GCSE specification  
  • 12 and 13 December 2023 – Algorithms and programming for AQA GCSE specification  

Alternatively, we have a number of residential CPD courses scheduled throughout the year, which you can explore and book your place for here.

About the author

Simon Roberts is the Secondary Computing Specialist at the National Centre for Computing Education.