Computing talent
A total of 120 trainee computing teachers from a range of backgrounds have been awarded government-backed scholarships worth £25,000 each. Run by the BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, and funded by the Department for Education, the scholarships are intended to attract high quality candidates into schools to teach the new computing curriculum. The 120 have been drawn from more than 420 applications. The scholarship scheme is backed by the likes of Microsoft, IBM, HP, among others. Visit: http://academy.bcs.org/scholarships
Exams update
Three professional update and development events aimed at examination officers are taking place later this term. Organised by the Examination Officers’ Association (EOA), the events will offer updates on examination reforms and access to key stakeholders involved in exams delivery, such as the awarding bodies, Ofqual, and the Joint Council for Qualifications. They take place in London on October 2, Manchester on October 8, and Birmingham on November 4. Visit www.examofficers.org.uk or call 0118 975 8552.
Armed forces
The government has launched a new resource aimed at teaching pupils aged from five to 16 about what the British armed forces do. It has been launched by Number 10 and backed by the Ministry of Defence. It is designed to be used as part of history, English and citizenship lessons, and explores “key questions that students might have about the armed forces”. The resource uses interactive links, video and audio. Visit: www.armedforceslearningresources.co.uk
UTCs reach 30
Another 13 University Technical Colleges have opened this term meaning a total of 30 are now operating across England. By partnering with industry, UTCs are intended to offer 14 to 18-year-olds courses which combine technical and practical expertise in key areas such as engineering, technology and construction. More than 60 employers are backing the new UTCs, including an engineering partnership between British Airways and Heathrow UTC. Visit: www.utcolleges.org
Show Me
A new website aimed at students and teachers is offering access to a range of stories, objects, games, films, apps and listings related to museums across the UK. Show Me is aimed at key stage 2 and 3 students and looks to support learning via resources or by sign-posting educational visits and days out. The site includes short films featuring children who lead tours around museums and find out more about certain objects. Visit: www.show.me.uk