Preparing for KS4 computing
CO905 Online course
Prepare for the new Key Stage 4 Computing curriculum, due to be taught from September 2028, and get ahead of the changes. Explore emerging priorities and key areas, including digital literacy, generative AI and cyber security, while considering how these could shape your curriculum. You’ll also discover practical resources, support and approaches to help you plan for the future.
Skip to course bookingGet ahead of the new Key Stage 4 Computing curriculum, due to be taught from September 2028, and begin considering what the changes could mean for your school and students.
You’ll explore the current landscape of computing education, the drivers for curriculum change and the wider role computing can play in preparing young people for further study, employment and life in a digital society. You’ll consider emerging priorities, including digital literacy, generative AI, cyber security and the responsible use of technology.
The course will help you explore different approaches to delivering Key Stage 4 Computing, including opportunities to embed digital literacy across the curriculum and provide meaningful experiences for all students. You’ll also consider how to support students to evaluate information, use AI responsibly and encourage greater participation in computing.
Throughout the course, you’ll explore practical examples, resources and sources of support, including the Computing Quality Framework, Oak National Academy, Isaac Computer Science, STEM Learning and Teach Computing.
Who is it for?
This course is for secondary computing curriculum leaders who are preparing their schools for the new Key Stage 4 Computing curriculum from September 2028. It is suitable for leaders who want to explore emerging priorities, consider different approaches to curriculum delivery and identify practical steps to prepare their provision for the future.
Topics covered
- The Computing curriculum - Explore the current landscape of computing education, the drivers for curriculum change and how schools can prepare for the future.
- Digital literacy and developing young people - Explore the role of digital literacy in preparing students to use, evaluate and create digital content responsibly.
- Generative AI in education: opportunities and risks - Explore how young people are using generative AI and consider opportunities, risks and approaches to responsible use.
- Cyber security and online safety - Explore key cyber security concepts, online harms, privacy and safeguarding, and consider how these can be addressed with students.
- Support for the new curriculum - Explore practical resources, programmes and support available to help you develop and implement your Key Stage 4 Computing provision.
How long is this course?
This course is approximately eight hours in duration. It is split into separate sections, enabling you to complete the course flexibly.
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.
Outcomes
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Understand the rationale for change: Explore why all students need computing knowledge, digital skills and digital literacy.
- Explore responsible technology use: Understand how students use digital technologies, including generative AI, safely and responsibly.
- Explore cyber security and online safety: Consider how these topics prepare students for an increasingly digital world.
- Design an inclusive KS4 curriculum: Consider approaches that meet the needs of all students across different computing pathways.
- Prepare for future delivery: Identify the resources, support and actions needed to prepare your school for KS4 Computing.
This course is part of Teach secondary computing
Teach secondary computing
Our nationally recognised qualification will give you confidence to take your computing teaching to the next level and to apply those skills in the classroom.
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