We seek to appoint a well-qualified and experienced teacher of Computing Science to join this vibrant and growing Department. The role is available from August 2024.
Appointment is subject to satisfactory references, PVG membership approval and proof of right to work in the UK.
Package DescriptionThe school prides itself on its warm and welcoming community, inclusive of all staff. Our teaching staff work alongside the operational teams to ensure the smooth running of the school. We value the contribution of all team members.
Through involvement in the co-curricular programme all those who work with us can bring their passions to work. Developing our talent is important to us. Access to training and professional development is available and encouraged.
In addition to salary and teacher holidays, our reward package includes:
Enrolment into generous DC pension
Access to onsite gym
Employee Assistance Programme
Employee Benefits Programme including discounts to a number of major retailers, holiday, electric car and cycle to work schemes, as well as health and well-being option
Fee discount
A three course lunch is provided during term time
Main ResponsibilitiesComputing Science Department Details
The Computing Science Department delivers Computing Science to pupils from Geits (P7) to 7ths (S6). For Geits to 3rds (S2) Computing Science is part of the core curriculum. The Department offers National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher Computing Science in 4ths (S3) to 7ths (S6).
Accommodation and resources
The school has excellent IT and Computing facilities. The school operates on a Windows 10 platform with our own Microsoft Office 365 tenancy. The School is currently transitioning to the use of Microsoft 365, including Teams, as well as using other market leading educational software services. The IT support department, led by the Director of IT, maintains the school IT provision. The Computing Science Department is co-located with the school IT Support team and they work closely with one another.
The main Computing Science teaching room has recently undergone a refurbishment and contains 20 desktop computers. In addition there is a large touch screen TV and whiteboard. Two other computer rooms are contained within the Department, each with desktop PC’s and large TV screens.
Learners in younger years all have iPads, with older years being able to bring their own devices.
Department curriculum and ethos
The Department is a growing, forward thinking, inclusive and innovative department that strives to educate pupils in the modern-day skills that are required for future success. In recent years, the department has invested in many new technologies and approaches to enhance the teaching of computational thinking, computer programming and digital literacy. The curriculum is ever evolving to ensure learners are challenged with real world scenarios, such as Cybersecurity and the growth of Artificial Intelligence. The curriculum for 2024 onwards has been significantly revamped, with the successful candidate playing a critical role in ongoing development.
Each November, learners will participate in the BEBRAS challenge, with a number progressing to the OUCC challenge in February.
Geits (P7): In P7, learners will be work through a series of topics, including the use of Sphero devices, expanding their understanding of Internet Safety, Computer Systems and Artificial Intelligence. This time is largely iPad focussed.
2nds (S1): As learners progress from iPads to Desktops, the department supports the school through delivery of Desktop and Office Skills, as well as learning about Web development using HTML and CSS, and the Development Process through use of Micro:bits.
3rds (S2): As learners progress towards course choices, the department introduces text-based programming in Python, as well as SQL for databases. This year also sees the return of Artificial Intelligence, with a clear focus on its place in the world of study and work.
4ths to 7ths (S3-S6): The Department takes pride in developing the academic potential of pupils, with a number moving on to study Computer Science related degrees at prestigious universities in recent years. To support this the Department currently offers SQA National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher Computing Science. The Department is also heavily involved in many whole school interdisciplinary projects as part of our academic enrichment program.
Duties and Responsibilities:
To teach Computing Science and Digital Literacy to pupils across all ages and stages.
To deliver a range of extra-curricular opportunities in Computing Science.
To participate in cross-curricular, academic enrichment events and activities that the Computing Science Department is involved in.
To assist the Head of Computing Science in developing and evaluating courses and schemes of work as appropriate.
To assist the Head of Computing Science in preparing pupils for UCAS applications (including Oxbridge) for Computer Science related courses.
To keep abreast of developments in Computing Science in an educational context.
To promote safe and responsible use of computer systems throughout the school community.
To promote and support initiatives across the school.
To attend Departmental and committee/working group meetings as appropriate.
Short-listed candidates will be asked to plan and teach a lesson.
The Ideal CandidateQualifications/Experience:
GTCS registered (or ability to be) with an appropriate degree - Essential
Experience of delivering SQA certificate classes in Computing Science – Essential
Should have drive, enthusiasm and a dynamic approach to the teaching of Computing Science - Essential
Excellent organisational skills – Essential
Able to work as part of a team as well as under own initiative – Essential
Positive contributions to curricular development initiatives – Essential
Proficient in using IT as part of classroom activity where appropriate, but also in communicating with colleagues, parents and students – Essential
Take a positive approach to teaching, engendering a sense of achievement and accomplishment for all regardless of ability - Essential
Willing to be part of the school’s Games programme, leading or providing coaching support to one of the teams (this includes weekend matches) - Desirable
About the school/organisationThe Edinburgh Academy is a fully co-educational school. The School consists of a Senior School, Junior School and a Nursery Department. The School is a member of HMC. The Edinburgh Academy moved to full co-education across the whole school in 2008. The Junior and Senior Schools are on separate sites, both of which have spacious grounds and sports facilities including extensive playing fields, an all-weather sports area, and a large Sports Hall and Centre.
