Computer Science SKE
Our Computer Science SKE is a flexible course where you can expand your knowledge of the Computer Science curriculum in secondary schools.
Applications closed
Applications for 2023/24 are now closed. Register your interest and we’ll let you know when applications open again.
Study a Computer Science SKE course at Sussex
We offer a range of units for trainees, from KS3 to GCSE, in which you can select from different materials areas. All units are supported by an excellent range of resources, including projects from and .
Course structure
The Sussex online Computer Science SKE is available as an eight,12 or 16-week course. All students must complete the two compulsory modules in July which concludes with a week-long workshop based face-to-face session.
Once you have enrolled, you will be able to select from the following four-week units:
- KS3 Introduction to Programming Scratch (C)
- KS4 Introduction to Programming in Python (C)
- Computational Thinking and Algorithms
- System Architecture
- Data Representation in Binary (numbers, characters, images, sound)
- Cyber Security and Networks
- Website Design using HTML and CSS
You will take two compulsory units and choose from a selection of optional units, with more units available later in the year. You’re expected to study 25 hours a week (full-time), made up of independent study and tutorials.
Each unit will be assessed through a range of assignments including a portfolio of work, exercises and projects that allow you to demonstrate student engagement in several ways. You will also prepare materials that can be used in the classroom.
To prepare you for your PGCE you will mainly follow the GCSE Computer Science J277 Syllabus from the OCR exam board. There will also be some KS3 units of work such as Scratch Programming and Online Safety.
- 16-week course
In the 16-week course you will take the two compulsory units (KS3 Introduction to Programming Scratch and KS4 Introduction to Programming in Python) and two optional units.
- 12-week course
In the 12-week course you will take the two compulsory units (KS3 Introduction to Programming Scratch and KS4 Introduction to Programming in Python) and one optional unit.
- Eight-week course
In the eight-week course you will take the two compulsory units (KS3 Introduction to Programming Scratch and KS4 Introduction to Programming in Python).
Eligibility and funding
SKE courses are funded by the Department for Education (DfE) if you have been offered a place on a PGCE course with enrolment on an SKE course as a condition of accepteance.
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Self-funding your SKE
We also offer a self-funded SKE route for:
- teacher trainees who are not eligible for DfE funding
- qualified teachers who want to teach a new subject, or refresh their subject knowledge before returning to teaching after a break
- anyone considering teaching as a new career who wants to increase their subject knowledge before applying for teacher training.
Learn more about how to self-fund your SKE.
Resources
In addition to input from specialist subject tutors you will also receive:
- a digital copy of a GCSE textbook for Computer Science
- a fully paid subscription to , a database of past KS3, GCSE and A-level exam questions
- access to thousands of relevant physical and e-books through our Library
- licensed software such as Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat Pro
- access to , a huge collection of documentaries, schools TV, films and drama that you can stream for free.
Contact us
If you have any queries about studying an SKE at Sussex, email ske@sussex.ac.uk.