So, you took an interest in the new computing curriculum. You made some changes to your old ICT schemes of work, developed some interesting new approaches, maybe learned some new skills to match all the new words in your vocabulary (who new decomposition meant something other than rotting, and that pattern recognition isn’t just done when shopping for wallpaper?).
In no time at all you became a teacher of computing, and started to enjoy it. You attended some get-togethers with other computing teachers… or maybe you didn’t, as they didn’t exist locally, but you ploughed on regardless.
Your colleagues started to notice the learning going on in your classroom and wanted to know more. Suddenly, you appear to be a leader of professional development for the teaching of computing…if not already, then expect to be asked soon!
Anyone with teacher-training experience knows, there is a difference between teaching, and leading the teaching of others.
There’s the whole ‘hearts and minds’ thing – some will ask ‘why should I care?’ and they’ll be asking you. Other questions heading your way might include:
- ‘what skills do I need?’
- ‘what should a Year 2 / 6 / 9 be able to do?’
- ‘what’s the best programming language for my kids?’
- ‘where can I find teaching resources?’
And everything else needed by teachers of a totally new subject!
So, the good news is – you’re not on your own!
Here are some ways to stay ahead of the game and wow your colleagues:
CAS Hubs – these regular get-togethers are within a 40 minute drive of anywhere in the UK. Here you’ll meet Master Teachers, able to provide teaching ideas, advice and resources. You’ll also meet other teachers with enthusiasm towards the subject, who have brought it alive in the classroom and the staffroom.
Twitter – computing teachers aren’t often far away from a computer, so Twitter is an excellent source of ideas and links. Hashtags such as #computing are a good place to start.
Conferences, such as BETT, have a range of speakers, workshops, give-aways and demonstrations from content and kit providers. These can provide lots of ideas – it’s amazing how much stuff can be got for free!
CPD Packages – Quickstart Computing is one of several CPD guides designed to pick-up-and-deliver. Like other self-study approaches, the true value of these is found once they are used – either for teaching or training. The CAS Barefoot resources and guidance for primary schools can also make an impact, and contain lots of great ideas that are proven to work with kids. Share them!
Professional Development Courses – Online or face-to-face, twilight or immersive, there are many opportunities for learning in a focused way. The National STEM Centre and National Science Learning Centre work together to provide an ever-growing array of CPD, for teachers at all stages of their career journey. This intensive course is specifically designed to put Level 1 Master Teachers in the right place to deliver outstanding lessons and lead excellent CPD.
Free resources – the National STEM Centre eLibrary has a large and ever-growing collection of teaching resources for computing. Many come complete with lesson plans, curriculum mapping and assessment opportunities. Wondering what kit to buy to support teaching? Worried that it won’t be a wise investment, and the spell of your genius will be shattered? Come to the physical library and get your hands on the many pieces of kit on interactive display.