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Essentials for teaching primary computing - residential

CP011 Face to face course

Explore essential strands of the computing curriculum (computer science, information technology and digital literacy) before taking a deep dive into teaching programming during this two-day residential.

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Residential and Intensive Key stage 2 Teach primary computing certificate
Face to face course 2 days

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.

Funded by the Department for Education and completely free for teachers at state schools, you’ll receive expert guidance through these strands of the computing curriculum.

Starting with a basic introduction to programming, you’ll then explore how to teach with Scratch and Scratch Jr, building both your own subject knowledge and your understanding of good programming pedagogies.

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. You can email [email protected] to secure this rate, providing your course booking information and confirming the night(s) you would like to stay.

Who is it for?

This is best suited for class teachers who are new to computing or would like to improve their understanding of primary computing. It would be suitable for 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. When you take part in our CPD, you’ll gain an understanding of the nature of computing in the curriculum, digital literacy and information technology, including basic programming essentials using Scratch.

Teaching programming using Scratch and ScratchJr

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.

Find out more

Further instances will be scheduled soon.

Keep an eye on our social media for new courses announcements coming soon!

This course is from the National Centre for Computing Education and is delivered by STEM Learning.

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