Exeter Maths School, in partnership with Broadclyst Community Primary School and Uffculme School, is delighted to have been awarded official Computing Hub status by the National Centre for Computing Education.
The National Centre for Computing Education is funded by the Department for Education and marks a significant investment in improving the provision of computing education in England.
The West Country Computing Hub is a focal point for local computing training across Devon and East Dorset – providing high-quality support for the teaching of computing in schools and colleges, from Key Stage 1 through to A level. Our extensive range of training, resources and support covers elements of the curriculum at every Key Stage, catering for all levels of subject knowledge and experience.
Whether you’re a teacher, employer or resource provider, there are plenty of ways you can engage with us.
To enable engagement with our CPD, a mixed offer of will be in place throughout the 2020/21 academic year – choose how and when you want to learn, through face-to-face, online, or live remote training.
If you have any questions, please email: TeachComputing@exeterms.ac.uk
Primary Courses
We offer free online courses and bursary-supported face-to-face/live-remote CPD (held during the day) courses for primary teachers working in state-funded schools in England.
| Work-Stream | Delivery Type | Scheduled Delivery | Fee | Bursary per course or day |
| Primary | Remote | Day | £35 per course day | £220 per day* |
| Primary | Remote | Twilight** | £35 per course day | £0 |
| Primary | Face-to-Face | Day | £35 per course day | £220 per day* |
| Primary | Face-to-Face | Twilight** | £35 per course day | £0 |
*One teacher from each school is eligible for a bursary to fund one course per academic year. This is payable on completion of the course. Subsequent teachers from the same school will pay £35 per course day.
Secondary Courses
For Key Stage 3 and 4 pedagogy, we offer free online courses to all teachers and face-to-face/live-remote CPD at a cost of £35 per course day, for teachers working in state-funded education.
Teachers who have completed the Computer Science Accelerator Programme are eligible to attend all Teach Computing CPD for free. Details will be sent on successful completion of the programme.
| Work-Stream | Delivery Type | Scheduled Delivery | Fee | Bursary per course or day |
| Secondary | Remote | Day | £35 per course day | £0 |
| Secondary | Remote | Twilight** | £35 per course day | £0 |
| Secondary | Face-to-Face | Day | £35 per course day | £0 |
| Secondary | Face-to-Face | Twilight** | £35 per course day | £0 |
Computer Science Accelerator Programme
The Computer Science Accelerator Programme offers free online courses to all teachers and free face-to-face/live-remote CPD for teachers in state-funded education.
Funding of £220 per course, up to a total of £880, is available to attend face-to-face/live-remote CPD (held during the day) and is paid to schools or colleges to cover costs associated with CPD, including travel and supply cover.
| Work-Stream | Delivery Type | Scheduled Delivery | Fee | Bursary per course or day |
| CSA | Remote | Day | £0 | £220 per course (Up to 4 Courses, i.e. £880) |
| CSA | Remote | Twilight** | £0 | £0 |
| CSA | Face-to-Face | Day | £0 | £220 per course (Up to 4 Courses, i.e. £880) |
| CSA | Face-to-Face | Twilight** | £0 | £0 |
Total Bursary Overview
| Teacher Progress | Bursary |
| Attend Face-to-Face/Live-Remote Course – Approx 5 hours of CPD per course | £220 per course (Up to 4 courses, i.e. £880) |
| Complete the programme & pass the final test* | £620 |
| Total Possible Bursary | £1500 |
*Completion of the programme could be as little as 10 hours of CPD, for a subject specialist.
Trainee teachers who pass the final test are eligible for the bursary. This will be payable when claimed within one academic year of gaining QTS and once they gain employment in a state-funded school or college.
Independent School Fees
The fee for teachers working in independent schools for all courses is £220 per day. Therefore, for any courses running for more than one day, the fee is multiplied accordingly i.e. a 3 day course would cost £660.
**What Counts as a Twilight Course
As many schools end their day between 1430 & 1515, it has been agreed that any CPD course that starts after 1430 is a twilight course. This is the same for either face-to-face or live-remote delivered instances.
Primary Courses
Face-to-Face Courses
Teaching and Leading KS1 Computing – Module 1
This course is designed to give you confidence in teaching the key stage 1 computing curriculum, including foundational knowledge of computer science; the applications of information technology and the implications for digital literacy in the modern world.
Teaching and Leading KS1 Computing – Module 2
The second module of this course covers digital literacy and information technology, covering the whole computing curriculum. Find out how to use software creatively, safely and responsibly for inspiring projects, and plan a rigorous and inclusive curriculum.
Teaching and Leading KS2 Computing – Module 1
This course aims to deepen understanding of computer science, information technology and digital literacy.
Teaching and Leading KS2 Computing – Module 2
Skillfully combining a wide range of software applications and multimedia such as video, images and sound, you will be better able to support children in creative and engaging project work across the whole primary curriculum.
Introduction to Primary Computing
For primary computing teachers who are new to the subject or its leadership. This CPD covers the whole computing curriculum at an introductory level, including programming essentials using Scratch.
Primary Programming and Algorithms
Learn essential subject knowledge to become a skilled teacher of primary computing. Be prepared to teach algorithms and programming to all ages of children, helping them develop their understanding through effective pedagogy.
Leading Primary Computing
Essential knowledge for primary computing subject leaders, helping you get the most from every teacher and every child.
Primary Course Booking Links
*See Bursaries/Fee Information
| Course | Delivery Type | Scheduled Delivery | Fee | Bursary | Dates/Timings | Booking Link |
| Primary Programming & Algorithms | Live-Remote | Day | £35 | £220* | Monday 12th April, 0900-1400
(Please note that this course will be split into live facilitator-led sessions & participant-led tasks) |
Click Here |
| Teaching and leading Key Stage 2 Computing – Module 1 | Live-Remote | Day | £35 | £220* | Session 1 – Monday 3rd May, 0900-1000 Session 2 – Thursday 6th May, 0900-0945 Session 3 – Friday 7th May, 0900-0930 Session 4 – Monday 10th May, 0900-0930 |
Click Here |
| Introduction to Primary Computing | Live-Remote | Day | £35 | £220* | Session 1 – Monday 10th May, 1200-1240 Session 2 – Wednesday 12th May, 1200-1245 Session 3 – Friday 14th May, 1200-1245 |
Click Here |
| Teaching and leading Key Stage 2 Computing – Module 2 | Live-Remote | Day | £35 | £220* | Session 1 – Monday 17th May, 1300-1400 Session 2 – Thursday 20th May, 1300-1400 |
Click Here |
| Introduction to Primary Computing | Live-Remote | Day | £35 | £220* | Session 1 – Monday 28th June, 1200-1340 Session 2 – Wednesday 30th June, 1200-1245 Session 3 – Friday 2nd July 1200-1245 |
Click Here |
Secondary Courses
Face-to-Face Courses
KS3 Computing for the Non-Specialist Teacher
For KS3 computing teachers who are new or existing to the subject. This CPD covers the key subject knowledge topics required to teach the computing KS3 programme of study.
Enriching Secondary Computing with STEM Ambassadors
Bring computing careers into the classroom with STEM Ambassadors – volunteers from the world of work.
Teaching GCSE Computer Science: Improving Student Engagement
Improve student engagement in your GCSE computer science lessons by developing your classroom pedagogy.
Secondary Course Booking Links
Courses coming soon!
In the meantime, please visit the Teach Computing website to find details of all courses being delivered remotely by our neighbouring hubs
GCSE Computer Science Accelerator Programme
The Computer Science Accelerator is a flexible professional development programme designed to give you the subject knowledge and confidence to teach GCSE computer science.
Programme Benefits
- Gain the subject knowledge required to teach the GCSE curriculum with confidence and drive attainment in your school
- Access a network of on and offline support to guide you through your professional development journey
- Obtain a professionally-recognised training certificate, awarded by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT
Teachers can choose to complete individual courses from a menu of face-to-face and online options.
The learning pathways will help you to get started and offer a structured route through the programme based on your level of experience.
We hope you find the programme supportive and that it helps to give you the confidence to teach computer science across the curriculum!
The Computer Science Accelerator Programme supports teachers to build their skills, increase their subject knowledge and confidence in order to teach GCSE Computer Science.
Now trainee teachers, supply teachers and teachers wishing to return to the profession will be able to access free continuous professional development, support and training to help them to successfully teach this high demand subject at GCSE.
Support is already available to existing computing or computer science teachers from state-funded secondary, primary and middle schools, and state-funded FE colleges.
This eligibility criteria has now been expanded to include:
- trainee teachers who may wish to additionally specialise in computing and computer science
- computing trainees who want to top up their subject knowledge and gain a nationally recognised certificate
- supply teachers that regularly teach computer science
- returning teachers that will teach computer science
- serving teachers at state-funded schools who are not currently teaching computing or computer science but who may wish to retrain and switch subject
The aim is to increase the number of pupils in schools and colleges who study computer science at GCSE and A level, particularly girls, and those from disadvantaged areas. This means ensuring that there are enough teachers equipped and confident to teach computer science.
Face-to-Face Courses
Representing Algorithms using Flowcharts & Pseudocode
This course aims to deepen understanding of computer science, information technology and digital literacy.
Fundamentals of Computer Networks
Learn how computers of all shapes and sizes are connected physically, or wirelessly, and how this arrangement affects how data is shared.
Python Programming: Constructs, Sequencing, Selection & Iteration
Learn how to write code to input, process and output data, and how to manipulate data stored in variables. Using the building blocks of sequence, selection and iteration you’ll begin to understand how programs are constructed to perform a multitude of simple and more complex tasks.
Introductions to Algorithms, Programming & Data
Create some simple block-based computer programs and discover how to implement them in the text based language Python.
Computer Processors
Explore the core of a modern computer. Learn how the instructions that humans write in computer programs are translated into machine code that the computer can process.
The Internet & Cyber Security
Build on knowledge of local computer networks to cover the globally connected systems forming the internet.
Python Programming: Working with Data
In this course you’ll learn about data types, and how data structures are manipulated in Python programs.
Introduction to Computer Systems, Networking & Security
Learn about the different components of computer hardware, including devices not instantly recognisable as computers.
Higher Attainment in GCSE Comp Sci: Meeting the Challenge of Exams
Explore how to improve attainment in GCSE Computer Science, look at how students should tackle exam questions and use key resources such as moderator reports, how retrieval and interleaving can be used and mapping progression from KS3 to KS4.
Search & Sort Algorithms
An understanding of algorithms is fundamental to success in GCSE computer science this course will teach you how algorithms manipulate data to achieve desired aims.
Computer Systems: Input, Output & Storage
Take your first steps to opening up the computer, exploring the main components, their role and how they work together in computer systems.
Python Programming Projects: Subject Knowledge, Implementation & Testing
Develop your Python programming skills by exploring advanced programming techniques then implementing and testing these in a working solution.
Python Programming Projects: Analysis, Design & Evaluation
Develop your Python programming skills by exploring the analysis, design and evaluation stages of the software development life cycle.
Online Courses
For a full list of available online courses that can be accessed to complete the Computer Science Accelerator Programme, please click here.
GCSE CSA Programme Booking Links
| Course | Delivery Type | Scheduled Delivery | Fee | Bursary | Dates/Timings | Booking Link |
| Python Programming: Working with Data | Live-Remote | Twilight | £0 | £0 | Session 1 – Monday 28th June, 1600-1700 Session 2 – Monday 5th July, 1600-1700 Session 3 – Monday 12th July, 1600-1700 |
Click Here |
| Python Programming Constructs: Sequencing, Selection & Iteration | Live-Remote | Day | £0 | £220 | Session 1 – Monday 5th July, 1300-1430 Session 2 – Thursday 8th July, 1300-1430 Session 3 – Friday 9th July, 1300-1430 |
Click Here |
Isaac Computer Science Teacher CPD
Teacher CPD events are designed to help A level computer science teachers build their confidence and understanding of the subject.
At each event, you’ll explore a computer science concept in depth, and you can easily adapt what you’ll learn for use in the classroom with your students.
We’ll also show you how to use the teacher functions on the Isaac Computer Science platform.
Isaac Computer Science Teacher CPD Booking Links
Summer Term Dates Coming Soon!
Short Courses & Additional Events
When
22nd June, 1600-1800
Cost
Free to attend!
Book your place!
Summary
This short introductory course demonstrates the value that STEM Ambassadors can add to the computing curriculum and the extra-curricular offer. Bringing these industry volunteers into the classroom can help make computing more relevant to young people, allowing them to consider computing as a future study and career option. STEM Ambassadors are great role models from the local area from the local area from a range of backgrounds.
Who is it for?
Subject leaders and teacher of secondary computing looking to enrich the subject.
What topics are covered?
In this single-session CPD you’ll learn the expectations for careers education in secondary schools, and how STEM Ambassadors can contribute. You’ll be guided through the process of requesting a STEM Ambassador engagement, with guidance on how best to utilise them in your teaching. You’ll also take-away lots of resources ready to use in teaching and learning, and in extra-curricular provision, created with STEM Ambassadors in a range of employer contexts. Finally, you’ll learn about possible next steps to fully integrate careers education into your curriculum, raising aspirations in computing among your students.
We’re super excited to be sharing an overview of the ScratchMaths Curriculum: a 2-year computing and mathematics based curriculum for KS2 learners designed and trialled by a team based at University College London. It’s aim is to enable children to engage with and explore important mathematical ideas through learning to programme, using the free online programming environment Scratch.
In this series of events, spread over the summer term, we will provide a brief overview of what the ScratchMaths Curriculum entails and how it is linked to the UKS2 Maths Curriculum, along with other subjects.
This will be followed by the opportunity to join 2 live lessons in the summer-term, whereby you and your students will be able to join in with a demonstration of how the investigations can be delivered in the classroom.
Finally, we will be delighted to direct you to how to download the free materials for you to use in your own school settings.
To book your free place at our overview for teachers on Friday 7th May, from 1545-1630, please visit the STEM Learning website.
Live Lesson 1 Dates
Wednesday 12th May, 0930 – 1030 or
Wednesday 19th May, 1330 – 1430
Live Lesson 2 Dates
Wednesday 9th June, 0930 – 1030 or
Wednesday 16th June, 1330 – 1430
When
19 May, 1600-1730
Cost
Free to attend!
Book your place!
Summary
A practical introduction for beginners new to the Kodu environment. We will explore how to use Kodu to teach computing, along with a range of other subjects.
By the end of this session, you will have created your own world with characters that can move around your world and interact with objects. Most importantly, you will leave with the skills, knowledge and understanding of how to use this software in the classroom.
When
09 June, 1600-1730
Cost
Free to attend!
Book your place!
Summary
This session will introduce participants to the Swift Playgrounds app – a free coding app from Apple that makes learning to code interactive and fun!
During this session we will look at engaging ways Swift Playgrounds can be used in the classroom to prepare children with problem solving and computational thinking.
CAS Community Network Meetings – Primary & Secondary
Overview
The primary aim of Computing At School (CAS) is to promote and develop the teaching of computing in schools by supporting teachers. One way to achieve this is to provide teachers with a local forum to share ideas and mutual interests. These CAS Communities form the foundation of much of the work of CAS. CAS Community meetings are for teachers, run by teachers.
Details of our upcoming meetings and details of how to book your free place are provided in the primary and secondary sections below.
Please visit our collaborative Wakelet page with links & resources gathered as part of our regular meetings for the Exeter primary Computing at School Meetings. Here you’ll also find recordings of our previous sessions!
| Date & Time | Topic | Session Overview | Booking Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thurs 22 Apr, 1545-1630 | Using STEM Ambassadors to support Curriculum Delivery | STEM Ambassadors are an important and exciting free of charge resource for teachers and others engaging with young people inside and out of the classroom. Get an update from the South West Peninsula hub and hear about the benefits of using a STEM Ambassador in your school setting. | Book your place! |
| Tues 8 June, 1545-1645 | Barefoot Programming Workshop - Be Cyber Smart | This session will explore the Barefoot Be Cyber Smart resources. The resources include lessons for both KS 1 and 2 in which pupils learn about a variety of cyber security related topics, including: ownership and permission in the digital world; The Computer Misuse Act and what activities using computers are illegal; and how cyber criminals use brute force methods to crack pin numbers (and what you can do to protect yourself!) Join the session and then take the resources straight back to use with your pupils. | Book your place! |
| Date & Time | Topic | Session Overview | Booking Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thurs 22 Apr, 1600-1700 | Q&A with Exam Board OCR | Since exams were cancelled in January, teachers and students have been waiting to hear how grades would be awarded this summer. The DfE and Ofqual have now announced how GCSE, AS and A Level students will get results. Subject Advisor at OCR, Ceredig Cattanahc-Chell, will join us to answer your questions about the process, provide guidance and outline the key stages ahead. | Book your place! |
Useful Links
