Essentials for teaching primary computing - residential

CP011 Face to face course

During this two day residential, you'll explore three strands of the computing curriculum (computer science, information technology and digital literacy) before taking a deeper dive into teaching programming.

Residential and Intensive Key stage 2 Teach primary computing certificate

Face to face course 2 days

York 1 May 10:00—2 May 2025

If you are new to teaching (or leading) primary computing, this CPD will develop your understanding of the three strands which make up the computing curriculum: computer science, information technology and digital literacy. You will look at the breadth and depth of each strand within the curriculum and explore activities which can be used to teach them in the classroom. After a basic introduction to programming on day one, you will explore this further on day two, exploring how to teach programming using Scratch and Scratch Jr, building both your own subject knowledge and your understanding of good programming pedagogies.

Across the two days, you’ll complete the following courses:

Completing this CPD will contribute towards recognised certification through the Teach primary computing certificate. You'll be supported along the way by your peers and experienced teaching professionals.

Residential information:

This is a residential course at the National STEM Learning Centre, York. Meals and overnight accommodation are included for participants for the duration of the course.

If you wish to extend your stay in York, bed and breakfast will be available at the centre’s on-site accommodation at a discounted rate of £45+VAT per night. You can email [email protected] to secure this rate, providing their course booking information and confirming the night(s) they would like to stay.

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 who want to ensure their subject knowledge is strong.

Topics covered

Introduction to primary computing – Computing in primary schools is a practical, creative, and knowledge-rich subject. This course provides you with the knowledge and confidence to get started teaching computing in your school. This CPD will help you understand the nature of computing in the curriculum; the breadth and depth of computer science, digital literacy and information technology including basic programming essentials using Scratch.

Teaching programming using Scratch and ScratchJr – Following on from your brief introduction to Scratch on day 1, you will learn essential subject knowledge to become a skilled teacher of primary programming using Scratch and Scratch Jr. Create and debug your own programmes, using key concepts such as sequence, repetition, selection and variables.

How long is this course?

This residential is two days in duration, you’ll complete approx. 12 hours of CPD.

How will you learn?

Hands-on experiential learning with the collaborative support of your peers. You’ll receive expert advice and instruction from experienced classroom practitioners. Personalised action planning will help you prioritise next steps for you and your school, ensuring you gain maximum benefit from the CPD.

Outcomes

By the end of this CPD package you will:

Understand the computing curriculum, describing a subject rich in both knowledge and skill development.
Develop an understanding of high-quality computing education in the context of your own school.
Know how to create and debug programs using Scratch and ScratchJr
Understand how to teach programming through effective pedagogies

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.

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