Computer Science December Update
I wish you all a healthy and happy end of year and festive break, I look forward to continuing to support you next year.
Training and Resources
This free online event, will be covering, in detail, questions 5 and 6 of Paper 2, and will cover:
- developing strategies for tackling comment-first coding questions
- developing strategies for tackling extended-open coding questions
- understanding the use of Programming Language Subset document during assessment
- learning about Pearson's contribution to addressing the gender gap in computer science
- discovering where to find additional support and resources for GCSE Computer Science.
This event counts as 1.5 hours of CPD.
You can download and enjoy the two recent training events
New to Pearson Edexcel GCSE Computer Science
This event was live on 08 October 2024 and is a useful insight if you are considering our specification and interested in its features and the support available. This training is for teachers who are moving to Pearson Edexcel or delivering the Pearson Edexcel GCSE Computer Science specification for the first time.
and
This event was live on 01 October 2024 it focused on the performance of some of the key questions in the series and provides analysis to support centres with understanding the assessment. The session points out key statistical performance data that may help with your planning for the year ahead.
You can now access a further set of Specimen Papers - these are Set 4. These Specimen papers will remain under padlock and are a very valuable resources to be used by teachers for mocks and other in program assessments. The silver padlock means that only teachers can access these resources. Further Set 4 resources, such as exemplar training materials will be added during the next academic year.
In the meantime please utilise all Sets 1 to 4 to help prepare your students for the live assessments.
Useful background content
Please watch this short case study video
Pete Dring, Head of Computer Science at Fulford School, tells us about the school’s experience of teaching Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Computer Science.
Recording of Paper 2 Preparation Event - 24th April 2024
We met with Exams Officers, Teachers and IT support colleagues to discuss getting ready for Paper 2.. The presentation that accompanied the event can be obtained below:
Recording of Network event 19th March 2024 with Mission Encodeable
Recent students Harry and Anna who are currently in Year 12 studying A Level Computer Science presented their Mission Encodeable resources and answered questions about their experience of GCSE Computer Science.
If you are delivering, or are considering delivering, our 2020 Computer Science specification and have not already been contacted please complete the Intention to offer form below.
Please join the 2207 colleagues currently active in the Facebook group for this qualification. It is teachers only and provides the platform for free and open sharing of views resources and opinions.
Join us as an Examiner
Excellent opportunity to join this growing team and gain invaluable CPD.
A GCSE -Computer Science (2020 Specification) Examiner will mark candidates’ responses in accordance with the pre-defined mark scheme, whilst adhering to conditions of recognition and examination procedures. A high level of subject knowledge is necessary in order to apply the mark scheme. Each examiner will receive an agreed allocation of scripts.
Please note that if you wish to be considered you must have experience with Python Computer Language for 1CP2 02.
Responsibilities
- To mark accurately and consistently to ensure overall standards are maintained
- To submit samples to your Team Leader at designated times
- To ensure milestones for marking are adhered to
- To ensure all administration is completed as specified
Experience/qualifications needed
- You will have one academic year's worth of teaching experience: a. within the last 8 years b. within the relevant qualification and subject
- You will have a degree or equivalent
- You will be a qualified teacher
- You will have experience in Python
Free teacher access to Pearson’s online GCSE revision.
We're here to help your GCSE Computer Science students have the best chance to succeed with online revision from the exam experts.
Pearson Revise Online gives every student the same access to all their revision guides for Pearson Edexcel and AQA subjects. All in one place online, with quick quizzes and knowledge checks to help them prioritise their learning.
This year, teachers can get free access to the platform to use in front-of-class revision lessons in the run-up to mocks.
Subject advisor
Tim Brady
Computer Science and ICT Subject Advisor
