Secondary Computing Courses 

HIGHLIGHTS, CERTIFICATION AND RESOURCES

Subsidies Available

We offer subsidies to provide two days of supply cover (£205 per day) for teachers to attend the Computer Science Accelerator (CSA) CPD, helping to develop teachers’ subject knowledge and skills without impacting pupils' lessons. This support is available to state-funded secondary schools and colleges in England.

This incentive payment is capped at two days of release per school in an academic year, which will support a teacher to complete the minimum required CPD to access the CSA test.

I Belong - Girls in Computing

In 2022, only one in five GCSE Computer Science and 15.2% of all A level Computer Science entries, were from female students in England. Encourage more girls to participate in computer science through an evidence-informed programme.

Issac Computer Science

Access free self-marking homework questions and resources for you and your students for GCSE and A-level.

KS3 and GCSE Computer Science Certificate (formerly known as CSA)

Awarded by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, this certificate is for any teacher who wants to develop or refresh their subject knowledge at the same time as working towards a nationally recognised qualification. Your school could receive a subsidy to support you on this journey. 

You will see that many of our courses work towards this qualification.

Secondary Computing Certificate

This professional development programme is designed to enhance how you teach secondary computing, and to give you confidence to apply those skills in the classroom. Throughout your learning journey, you'll get the opportunity to develop yourself, your professional community, and your students, by engaging in a range of activities. 

UPCOMING COURSES and Events

We have a variety of CPD courses running over the next few months and are constantly adding new courses so do check back soon. All of our courses are free of charge for state schools.

If there is anything you would want to see here or if you have any questions don't hesitate to contact us. 

We hope to see you at one of our courses soon!

The Big Secondary Computing Leadership Conference - 12th December - 09.00 to 16.00 - Oxford Brookes University

Info and booking


An opportunity to hear from experienced department leaders, and based in the most recent evidence of 'what works', you'll come away with an informed set of goals and the tools to make it happen. Taking place across multiple sessions, you’ll get inspirational ideas and make connections with other leaders to help implement and monitor the impact of your Computing Leadership. 

The Big Computing Leadership Conference 2024 (Secondary) Follow Up - 15th January - 16:00 - 17:30

Encouraging Girls into GCSE Computer Science - Follow up from the conference - 21st January - 15:45 - 16:45

Python Programming Courses (CSA)

Python Programming Constructs: sequencing, selection & iteration

Develop your foundational knowledge around the Python language for your GCSE specification. Learn how to write code and to use the building blocks of sequence, selection and 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.

Python programming: analysis, design and evaluation - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking 

Develop your Python programming skills by exploring the analysis, design and evaluation stages of the software development life cycle.

Python programming: working with data - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking 

In this course you’ll learn about data types, and how data structures are manipulated in Python programs.

Python programming: advanced subject knowledge, implementation and testing - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking 

Develop your Python programming skills by exploring advanced programming techniques then implementing and testing these in a working solution.

Subject Knowledge Focus Courses (KS3 and GCSE CS Certificate)

Preparing to take the KS3 and GCSE Computer Science Certificate - short course - N.B. THIS COURSE DOES NOT CONTRIBUTE TO YOUR CERTIFICATE HOURS BUT IS A GREAT AID AND ADDITION.

This short course, delivered by an experienced Professional Development Leader will support you ahead of taking the test. You'll have the opportunity to ask questions and revise topics.

An introduction to computer systems, networking and security in GCSE computer science - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking

Learn about the different components of computer hardware, including devices not instantly recognisable as computers.

An Introduction to algorithms, programming and data in computer science - FACE TO FACE - 17th December - Info and booking

Create some simple block-based computer programs and discover how to implement them in the text based language Python.

An Introduction to algorithms, programming and data in computer science - remote - Multiple dates available - Info and booking

Create some simple block-based computer programs and discover how to implement them in the text based language Python.

Introduction to algorithms, programming and data for D&T teachers - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking

Learn how to use programming techniques using VEX, Crumble or Micro:bits. Create simple block-based computer programs, discover how to create algorithms and how computers use data.

Maths in computer science - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking

Mathematics is firmly embedded at the core of computer science, during this course you’ll explore the foundational topics at the heart of mathematics and computer science.

Fundamentals of computer networks - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking

Learn how computers of all shapes and sizes are connected physically, or wirelessly, and how this arrangement affects how data is shared.

Representing algorithms using flowcharts and pseudocode - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking

Improve your knowledge of algorithms to the level appropriate for GCSE teaching. Become confident in using the key building blocks of sequence, selection and iteration, and learn to apply algorithmic thinking.

Search and sort algorithms - Remote 


An understanding of algorithms is fundamental to success in computer science. To reach their full potential, students up to GCSE computer science need to be confident in using decomposition and abstraction to solve problems.

Other dates, info and booking

The internet and cyber security - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking

Build on knowledge of local computer networks to cover the globally connected systems forming the internet.

Introduction to Isaac GCSE computer science - short course - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking

This short course will introduce you to the new, Isaac GCSE computer science platform.

Subject Area Focused Courses

Teaching GCSE computer science pedagogy for programming - FACE TO FACE - 6th December - 9.30 to 15.30 - Kingsbrook School, Aylesbury - Info and booking

During this one day course you’ll dive deep into teaching and learning of programming. You’ll learn effective ways of delivering programming in the classroom, using structures such as PRIMM. You’ll also explore how to build resilience amongst students using strategies such as Growth Mindset, how to build resilience through debugging programs and practical teaching strategies, that can be used by students, to build their understanding of programming principles.  

Python programming: advanced subject knowledge, implementation and testing - 20th December - 9.30 to 15.30 - Remote - Info and booking


During this course you’ll develop your Python skills by exploring advanced programming techniques such as authentication, nested selection, data structures, sub-routines etc. whilst applying them into the implementation and testing stages of the software life cycle.

Boolean Logic in A Level Computer Science - FACE TO FACE - 24th January - 13.30 to 16.30 - Oxford Brookes (Headington Campus) - Info and booking


Boolean logic is a way of describing the circuits inside a computer, and the same concept can be represented by a logic circuit diagram, a truth table, or a Boolean expression. During this course you’ll learn how to interpret circuit diagrams, write Boolean expressions and explore the laws of Boolean algebra.

Introduction to Programming for A Level Computer Science - FACE TO FACE - 17th February - 09.30 to 15.30 - Oxford Brookes (Headington Campus) - Info and booking


Enter the world of A Level programming with this course which will develop your knowledge of the subject from the knowledge needed to teach GCSE computer science. This course equips new A-Level computer science teachers with essential programming concepts, focusing on data structures, control flow, modular design and file handling.

Maths for A Level Computer Science - FACE TO FACE - 13th March - 09.00 to 12.00 - Oxford Brookes (Headington Campus) - Info and booking


Enhance your A-level CS teaching with a deep focus on number representation. This course covers binary/denary conversions, floating point numbers, normalisation, and related mathematical operations, boosting your confidence in teaching maths-related content.

Collaboration in KS3 programming - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking 

Engage students and build awareness of the collaborative nature of programming in the real world, through evidence-based teaching approaches.

Creative digital media projects - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking 

Lead students through the full digital media project life-cycle, in engaging projects suitable for KS3 and KS4 computing.

Solving computational problems in KS3 computing - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking 

Build the capability of students to solve problems in computing, and be ready for GCSE Computer Science

Data-driven IT projects in secondary computing - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking 

Develop the required technical skills and teaching approaches for data-rich IT projects in computing.

Other Secondary Computing Courses

New subject leaders of secondary computing - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking

Develop the leadership skills and management practices to confidently coordinate an effective computing department.

Encouraging girls into GCSE computer science - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking 

Explore the bigger picture and be equipped to address the gender gap in Computer Science and improve uptake in your school.

Supporting the 'I Belong' Programme - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking 

A Specialist PDLP Module that will enable you to deliver the the flagship ‘I belong' course: Encouraging Girls into GCSE Computer Science. On completion of this course you will also become an 'I Belong Champion’ . You will not be able to deliver the Encouraging Girls course without this specialist module.

Supporting GCSE computer science students at grades 1-3 - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking

Explore how to improve attainment in Computer Science for students working towards grades 1 - 3.

Adapted teaching and effective learning interventions in secondary computing - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking

Develop an evidence-informed approach to education recovery over a sustained period, securing the computing education of young people following a period of great disruption.

Higher attainment in computer science - meeting the challenges of the exams - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking

Explore how to improve attainment in 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.

Teaching GCSE computer science: improving student engagement - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking

Improve student engagement in your GCSE computer science lessons by developing your classroom pedagogy.

Effective computing transition from KS2-3 - Remote - Multiple dates and times available - Dates, info and booking

Develop a transition project demonstrating knowledge, understanding and skills to support KS2 / KS3 teachers in ensuring the curriculum needs are met through the transition process.

Foundation knowledge of computer science for KS3 and GCSE - remote - Remote - Multiple dates and times available - Dates, info and booking

For computer science teachers who are new or existing to the subject. This CPD covers the foundation subject knowledge required to teach the computing programme of study.

Other Secondary Computing Short Courses

Assessment in secondary computing - short course - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking

Effective teaching is underpinned by the accurate use of assessment, during this course you’ll explore formative and summative assessment strategies whilst understanding how to accurately assess.

Behaviour for learning in a computing environment - short course - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking

This CPD covers generic behavior for learning strategies, including managing own behaviours, rules routines, recognition reward and interventions and links them it back to their use in a computing environment.

Diagnostic assessment for GCSE computer science - short course - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking

Learn how to use quality-assured, free subject knowledge tests for diagnostic assessment of students of computer science GCSE.

Enriching secondary computing with STEM Ambassadors in your region - short course - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking

Bring computing careers into the classroom with STEM Ambassadors - volunteers from the world of work.

Preparing for Ofsted in secondary computing - short course - Remote - Multiple dates available - Dates, info and booking

Get yourself and your teaching team inspection-ready with this short course, exploring how to prepare for an Ofsted 'Deep Dive' in computing.

OTSA Computing Courses

Encouraging Girls into GCSE Computer Science - 23rd January - 15.30 to 17.30 - Remote - Info and booking


Strategies need to be adopted inside and outside of the classroom to support girls into computer science. This course provides an overview of the current challenges in computing with a specific focus on gender balance, covering current research and existing barriers. 

Preparing to take the KS3 and GCSE Subject Knowledge Certificate test - short course - 17th March - 15.45 to 17.15 - Remote - Info and booking

This short course will support you to prepare for completing the KS3 and GCSE Subject Knowledge Certificate test.

Online Courses You Can Join Anytime

An Introduction to Computer Networking for Teachers - Info and joining

Build your knowledge and understanding of computer networks as a computer science teacher.

Creating an Inclusive Classroom: Approaches to Supporting Learners with SEND in Computing - Info and joining

Explore ways to make your computing lessons more inclusive for learners with special educational needs and disabilities.

Data Representation in Computing: Bring Data to Life - Info and joining

Learn how data is represented through media; audio, visual and text.

Design and Prototype Embedded Computer Systems - Info and joining

Discover embedded system design and work your way through the product design lifecycle.

How Computers Work: Demystifying Computation - Info and joining

Explore the fundamentals of computing - computer architecture, binary logic, data processing, circuits, and more.

How to utilise the teach computing curriculum effectively (Key Stages 3 and 4) - Info and joining

Create an inspiring and engaging computing curriculum for secondary school students, using freely available resources.

Impact of Technology: How To Lead Classroom Discussions - Info and joining

You will explore the ethical, legal, cultural, and environmental concerns surrounding computer science.

Introduction to Cybersecurity for Teachers - Info and joining

Teachers will be introduced to the core ideas of cybersecurity that should be taught in the classroom.

Introduction to databases and SQL - Info and joining

On this course you’ll learn what databases are and why we use them, exploring how to use SQL to search and manipulate the data.

Introduction to Encryption and Cryptography - Info and joining

Discover the history of encryption and learn how it's used in the modern world.

Introduction to Machine Learning and AI - Info and joining

Discover the fundamentals of machine learning, how it works, and learn to train your own AI using free online tools.

Introduction to Web Development - Info and joining

Discover web development and learn to build your own interactive websites using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

Object-oriented Programming in Python: Create Your Own Adventure Game - Info and joining

Learn object-oriented programming principles by creating your own text-based adventure game in Python.

Programming 101: An Introduction to Python to Educators - Info and joining

During this course you'll explore the basics of Python, you’ll learn to code your first program.

Programming 102: Think like a Computer Scientist - Info and joining

During this course you'll take your Python skills further by exploring algorithms and list structures.

Programming 103: Saving and Structuring Data - Info and joining

Learn how to save and structure data in external files, and import files back into your Python programs.

Programming Pedagogy in Secondary Schools: Inspiring Computing Teaching - Info and joining

Examine a range of pedagogical approaches suitable for teaching computing in Key Stage 3.

Programming with GUIs - Info and joining

Discover how to build your own Graphical User Interface (GUI) with Python and guizero.

Understanding Computer Systems - Info and joining

Understand how the components of a computer system interact with each other on this online course for computing teachers.

Understanding Maths and Logic in Computer Science - Info and joining

Improve your understanding and ability to teach maths and logic in computing while building elements of an escape room.

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