Foreword

Computers are now part of everyday life and, for most of us, technology is essential to our lives, at home and at work. 'Computational thinking' is a skill that all pupils must learn if they are to be ready for the workplace and able to participate effectively in the digital world.

The new national curriculum for computing has been developed to equip young people in England with the foundational skills, knowledge and understanding of computing they will need for the rest of their lives. Through the new programme of study for computing, they will learn how computers and computer systems work, they will design and build programs, they will develop their ideas using technology, and create a range of digital content.

But what does all this mean in practice for secondary schools? How should school leaders be planning for the new curriculum and how can teachers develop the additional skills they will need? What qualifications routes are available to computing students at KS4 and where might they lead? This guide has been written especially for secondary teachers. It aims to demystify precise but perhaps unfamiliar language used in the programme of study. It will enable teachers to get to grips with the new requirements quickly and to build on current practice. It includes help for schools with planning and gives guidance on how best to develop teachers' skills.

The new national curriculum for computing provides schools with an exciting new opportunity to reinvigorate teaching and learning in this important area of the curriculum. We hope this guide will help you on your way.

To find out more, please visit us at Computing At School. You will also find an eBook version of this guide there, which can be freely shared with colleagues.

Simon Peyton-Jones
Chairman, Computing At School