Introduction to primary computing

CO454 Online course

For primary computing teachers who are new to the subject or its leadership. This self-paced CPD covers the whole computing curriculum at an introductory level, looking at computer science, programming, information technology and digital literacy.

Key stage 1 Key stage 2 Teach primary computing certificate

Free online course 6 hours

This self-paced online course provides you with the knowledge and confidence to get started teaching computing in your school. Suitable for all primary teachers, whether you’re an early career teacher or would like to improve your understanding of how to teach computing. In this self-directed course, you will explore what is in the National Curriculum, looking at digital literacy, information technology and computer science, including basic programming essentials using Scratch. You’ll gain experience in teaching of different aspects of computing and will consider how to adapt activities for your classroom.Enrol now and start your journey to confidently teach computing in your classroom.

Who is it for?

Class teachers who are new to computing or would like to improve their knowledge and understanding of primary computing. It may also be of interest to some new subject leaders.

Topics covered

• What is computing? – Unpick the primary curriculum and discover how to teach this.• Information Technology – Explore free software used to create a range of multimedia projects such as digital music, webpages and 3D design. • Programming - Understand how computational thinking underpins learning of computer programming, and how algorithms form the basis of all programs. Try out activities using Scratch which support the understanding of sequence, repetition and selection.• Computer science – Improve your subject knowledge of devices, networks and the internet. Explore activities which support learning in these areas.• Digital Literacy – Understand progression of Digital Literacy and how to integrate it across the computing curriculum. Explore activities which support the teaching of Digital Literacy.

How long is this course?

This course is approximately 6 hours of self-directed learning

How will you learn?

This online, self-paced course can be completed flexibly. You can join and start this course at any time after the advertised date and keep access for a year after booking. You can learn independently or with colleagues to directly address your individual needs.

Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:• Understand the computing curriculum, describing a subject rich in both knowledge and skill development.• Gain experience of teaching and learning in computing, including introductory computer programming using popular tools, such as Scratch.• Be confident in the next steps to develop the teaching of computing, supported by a range of high-quality resources.

This course is part of Teach primary computing

Teach primary computing

Our nationally recognised qualification will support you to demonstrate your commitment to developing your own practice and to computing as a school subject.

Find out more