Subject Knowledge Enhancement in Computer Science - (SKE)
Currently viewing course to start in 2022/23 Entry.
If you wish to train as a computer science teacher, but your degree did not provide enough computer science content on this subject for you to gain automatic entry to initial teacher training, completion of this SKE course might be made a condition of your PGCE offer onto a secondary computer science teacher training course....
- Level Postgraduate Taught
- Study mode Blended Learning
- Location Online Learning
- Award (SKE)
- Start date March 2023, April 2023, May 2023
- School School of Education and Social Work
- Faculty Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences
Overview
If you wish to train as a computer science teacher, but your degree did not provide enough computer science content on this subject for you to gain automatic entry to initial teacher training, completion of this SKE course might be made a condition of your PGCE offer onto a secondary computer science teacher training course.
This course will prepare you for initial teacher training in secondary computer science by developing your skills and giving you the confidence to recognise the areas of your own subject knowledge which you need to develop during the enhancement course, your initial teacher education and beyond. It will also help you to develop a deep understanding of the knowledge, concepts and skills associated with computer science as a subject.
What's covered in this course?
We aim to help you to come to a deep understanding of the concepts and skills associated at GCSE level. In addition, aspects of A level computer science will be covered depending on the aptitudes and interests of the trainees.
Why Choose Us?
- The SKE course is undertaken before starting an initial teacher training course. It is important that you have a conditional offer of a place on an initial teacher training course either at Birmingham City University or another provider before you start a SKE course
- Please visit the DfE for further information about funding
- We have a long and successful track record in developing secondary teachers
- This course will boost your knowledge and understanding of this subject
- Our course provides the ideal stepping stone to further study and full Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
Studying with us during the Covid-19 pandemic
The University has put in place measures in response to Covid-19 to allow us to safely deliver our courses. Should the impact of the pandemic continue in future years, any additional or alternative arrangements put in place by the University will be in accordance with the latest government public health advice, health and safety legislation, and the terms and conditions of the student contract.
OPEN EVENING
Join us for an on-campus Open Evening where you'll be able to explore our campus and facilities in person. Booking for the next event isn’t open yet. Register your interest below and we’ll email you as soon as booking goes live.
Next Event: Wednesday 26 April
Entry Requirements
UK students
| Essential |
|---|
|
The SKE computer science course is suitable for graduates with a good degree from a UK higher education institution (or a recognised equivalent) who have sufficient computer science knowledge to commence the course. |
|
This could be through holding an A-level in computer science, (not essential) having an element of computer science in your degree course and/or occupational experience of the subject. |
|
Applicants must also meet the Department for Education (DfE) requirements for Initial Teacher Training, which means being medically fit and completing successfully an enhanced disclosure via the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). |
|
In addition to academic qualifications, candidates will be expected to have good communication and organisational skills, possess a desire to learn more about computer science and demonstrate a commitment to teaching the subject. |
|
To be eligible to start this course you MUST hold a conditional offer of a place on an initial teacher training course, for example a PGCE Secondary Computer Science course. |
Fees & How to Apply
UK students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: (SKE)
Starting: Mar 2023
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Blended Learning
- 16 Weeks
-
TBC
Award: (SKE)
Starting: Apr 2023
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Blended Learning
- 12 Weeks
-
TBC
Award: (SKE)
Starting: May 2023
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Blended Learning
- 8 Weeks
-
TBC
International students
Sorry, this course is not available to International students.
If you're unable to use the online form for any reason, you can complete our PDF application form and equal opportunities PDF form instead.
How to apply
Once you have accepted a conditional offer onto a PGCE course you should apply using the link above. You will need to provide proof of this offer when you apply. Our admissions team will process your offer and further information will be sent to you.
If you have any for further queries, please contact the Programme Lead for the SKE courses via email on: Leanne.Gould@bcu.ac.uk.
Course fees
Funding for these courses is reviewed annually by the Department for Education. You can find details on the DfE website.
Course in Depth
Download course specification
Download nowCourse in Depth
The SKE Computer Science course is designed for those who have a relevant subject degree and/or industry experience but feel they would benefit from filling in the gaps that perhaps have not been covered in sufficient depth.
The subject of computing is broad and the specialism of many degrees means that this course is useful in raising the confidence of trainee teachers. You will spend a significant amount of time learning about key programming concepts using a variety of different paradigms and languages such as Python and Java . More theoretical concepts will be covered to a comprehensive depth with plenty of practical activities to complete where you will explore concepts such as data representation, Boolean algebra, data structures, algorithms, networking, computer architecture and physical computing using Raspberry Pis, Arduinos and Micro:bits.
This course is taught online.
University's accreditation
Pre-initial teacher training Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) courses are intensive programmes, which have been accredited by the Department for Education.
As a provider of Initial Teacher Training (ITT) Birmingham City University is regularly inspected by the Office for Standards in Education, Children's Services and Skills (Ofsted).
Ofsted reports directly to Parliament and is independent and impartial. It inspects and regulate services which care for children and young people, and those providing education and skills for learners of all ages.
Ofsted inspections of ITT providers provide an expert and independent assessment of how well we are performing and the quality of teacher training offered. Information in the inspection report can help prospective trainees decide which universities suit their training needs.
In the latest Ofsted Inspection (March 2014) we were was awarded a grade 2 rating 'Good' for our primary and early years, secondary and post-compulsory education and training provision.
Employability
Enhancing your employability skills
After you have successfully completed a Subject Knowledge Enhancement in Computer Science course and then an initial teacher training course, for example a PGCE Secondary Computer Science course you will be ready to begin your career as a computer science teacher in the secondary sector.
Facilities & Staff
Our facilities
Our School of Education and Social Work is based at our City South campus in leafy Edgbaston.
We’ve spent £41million expanding the education facilities at City South. These facilities offer hands-on practical experience, replicating the spaces you will come across in professional practice. Alongside classrooms and lecture theatres, we also have a range of specialist teaching and learning spaces for specific subjects including science, design and technology, drama and physical education.
As well as subject-specific rooms, our facilities include the Primary Innovation Lab, which houses £24,000 worth of LEGO. This room is a special resource for our education students, offering an innovative and creative way to approach subjects across the curriculum – from computing to English, mathematics to art. The lab responds to research that children and young people learn best from practical experience.
Our Social Work students have access to a home environment room and mock hospital wards which offer an opportunity to gain experience of working with service users in different situations.
Computer facilities
The Seacole building has two open-access IT Suites which offer PCs, printers, photocopiers and scanners. There is also an IT Helpdesk for quick and easy help with your computing or internet issues.
Our PCs utilise the latest Intel i5 core technology, all with:
- Fast (unrestricted) internet connectivity
- Ability to save files to USB, DVD & CD
- Microsoft Office software
- Research and statistical software
- Storage space which can be accessed from any PC across the University and from home
Our PCs are also designed to support students who may have difficulties with reading and writing, featuring specialised software with zooming/magnification and screen reading capabilities, which may also be customised for individual student needs.
In addition to desktop PCs, we also offer a laptop loan facility, allowing students to borrow a laptop for up to six hours while on campus.
Our staff
Leanne Gould
Senior Lecturer
Leanne is a senior lecturer in Science Education and has held management responsibility for QTS courses before moving into the role of Course Lead for SKE. Leanne teaches as part of the Science Education team on Undergraduate and Post Graduate courses as well as SKE courses.
More about Leanne