Careers in computing - How collaboration with the NCCE has improved Harris’ computer science curriculum

The Computer Science and Computing curriculum has evolved greatly over the last decade. The curriculum previous being built around the use of applications such as Word and Excel have given way to fresh learning frameworks which focus on much more contemporary practices used in the tech industry, such as coding, system architecture, networks, 3d software and more.

But in order to keep up with the quickly evolving technical landscape, it is equally important to ensure our teachers are equipped to deliver this advanced learning. This is why Harris Federation work in close collaboration with the National Centre for Computing Education (NCCE), which supports our teachers to deliver a curriculum designed to be both engaging and relevant to current trends in technology.

Harris Academies Beckenham, Bromley and Shortlands Primary recently featured in the NCCE’s awareness video, which recognised their collaborative efforts in implementing improvements to Computer Science in education. You can watch the video here:

The NCCE provides a series of dedicated CPD courses and resources which offer training on delivering the Computer Science curriculum across primary and secondary, from key stages 1-5. Teachers have the opportunity to complete their learning face-to-face, online or via live remote training, making the learning highly accessible in a busy school environment. 

Students and teachers alike have observed the positive outcomes of this professional development. Teachers like Tauqir Anwar from Harris Girls’ Academy Bromley, who completed the NCCE’s GCSE certificate program, said they have felt more confident in delivering elements of the computing curriculum thanks to specialist knowledge they learned on the course. As well as covering elements such as Python programming, the program provided the chance to network with other teachers in the subject, and provided a large bank of resources that were both comprehensive and adaptable.

Students reported positive changes in classroom teaching methods as a result, noting more engaging activities and being given autonomy to develop their own skills. There has also been a noticeable increase in interest in the subject from girls, helped in part by the I Belong programme.

The teach computing curriculum has had a massive impact on our students through an increase in their aspirations, their opportunities and their outcomes, as well as seeing an increase in girls choosing to study computer science.

Catherine Dunn, Harris Academy Beckenham

The I Belong programme celebrates women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) industries, and sets out to provide role models for students who aspire to join these fields of work. The programme is key to inspiring pupils in our academies who not only want to pursue tech-specific careers such as game development and cybersecurity, but also those who are looking at getting ahead in the world of business and science, where the skills learned in these lessons give students an advantage.

The NCCE is a valuable partner in meeting the demands of the national curriculum for computing, and we look forward to seeing what our students go on to achieve with this fundamental learning in their toolkit.