Algorithms and programming for OCR GCSE specification - residential CY269 / A02

An understanding of both algorithms and programming is vital for success in GCSE computer science. During this two-day residential you’ll learn the fundamentals of both topics, aligned to the OCR J277 9-1 GCSE computer science specification.

During day 1 you’ll focus on representing algorithms using flowcharts and pseudocode. Students need to understand how algorithms are designed to solve a problem, and how these designs are represented to other humans. You’ll explore how to read and write your own algorithms, based on the core concepts for designing algorithms.

Day 2 will focus on Python programming, focusing primarily on the three main constructs – sequencing, selection and iteration. You’ll 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.

This CPD package will provide you with the opportunity to upskill your subject knowledge, up to GCSE level. Completing this pathway will contribute towards recognised certification through the Computer Science Accelerator programme. You'll be supported along the way by experienced teaching professionals, among a group of your peers.

You'll participate in live face-to-face CPD, with the opportunity to access on-demand online CPD. You'll take-away ready-to-use and successful teaching approaches from experienced teachers, supported by the latest research and evidence.

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

• Representing algorithms using flowcharts and pseudocode for the OCR specification
• Python programming constructs: sequencing, selection & iteration for the OCR specification

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. Subsidies are also available for teachers from state-funded schools and colleges which can be used towards travel, supply cover, teaching equipment or further local CPD.

If participants wish stay to spend the night before the residential in York, bed and breakfast will be available at the centre’s on-site accommodation at a discounted rate of £45+VAT. Participants can email reception@stem.org.uk to secure this rate, providing their course booking information and confirming the night(s) they would like to stay.