What’s involved?
With more and more children aware of, and interested in, technology in its various forms, getting involved in Computing is an attractive course option for pupils.
Being a Computing Teacher is all about introducing young people to the fundamentals of programming and information technology and developing their skills as they progress through school. You’ll be able to share your enthusiasm and expertise from basic coding to complex programming and the use of many popular applications.
Computing Teacher training options
There are two routes into teaching computing. You can study a four-year degree that combines education with Business Studies and Computing Science (or Computing Science and Maths) or take a one-year computing PGDE course following an undergraduate degree.
Bursary for Computing teaching courses in Scotland
There are bursaries available for those who have been working for at least three of the last five years and have already studied for a degree in Computing. Get more information about what could be available to you here.
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Chris Aitken - Computing Science Teacher at Wick High School
“The reason I went into teaching instead of a career as a programmer was that I, quite simply, enjoyed playing. Being able to play and experiment with different technologies undoubtedly inspires me and I know this passion and enthusiasm gets passed on to pupils. I enjoy the fact that teaching Computing Science means that my course is constantly changing as the technology sector evolves and science advances.
"I try to make sure my courses are relevant to young people, for example just recently one of my classes were making Facebook chat-bots and another were using Raspberry Pis to build and code mobile robots. I therefore find teaching computing to be incredibly creative, challenging and fun and if you as a teacher bring an enthusiasm and passion to your subject, it 100% rubs off on young people and engages them.
"If you are passionate about your subject, choose teaching. You can make a difference to young people’s lives."
Ian Power - Computing Teacher at Auchinleck Academy
“I switched from a career as an electrical engineer to become a Computing teacher after being made redundant. I found the job security very attractive and I also knew I would enjoy the social aspect of teaching, the interaction with pupils, and the variety that their personalities bring to my work. Even after 15 years in the role, I’m still happy with my decision. It’s very rewarding to see pupils develop their skills over their time from S1 to S6. Pupils don’t all learn the same way, which keeps lessons varied as you have to adapt your teaching style for every class and pupil. This makes each day different. New technology also means the Computing course has continually changed over the years and this has driven me to develop and learn new skills in my subject as well."