We seek to appoint an enthusiastic and knowledgeable teacher of Computing Science to join a thriving Department. The role is available from August 2025, and we welcome applications from newly qualified and experienced teachers alike.
Computing 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.
Main Responsibilities:
Duties and Responsibilities:
1. To teach Computing Science and Digital Literacy to pupils across all ages and stages.
2. To deliver a range of extra-curricular opportunities in Computing Science.
3. To participate in cross-curricular, academic enrichment events and activities that the Computing Science Department is involved in.
4. To assist the Head of Computing Science in developing and evaluating courses and schemes of work as appropriate.
5. To assist the Head of Computing Science in preparing pupils for UCAS applications (including Oxbridge) for Computer Science related courses.
6. To keep abreast of developments in Computing Science in an educational context.
7. To promote safe and responsible use of computer systems throughout the school community.
8. To promote and support initiatives across the school.
9. To attend Departmental and committee/working group meetings as appropriate.
Short-listed candidates will be asked to plan and teach a lesson.
Ideal Candidate:
* 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
* Committed to working in line with the Edinburgh Academy Values - Essential
* Experience of supporting or leading a co-curricular activity in a related field (for example, coding club) - Desirable
* 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
Package Description:
The 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.
Our reward package includes:
* Generous Defined Contribution Pension Scheme
* Access to onsite gym
* Employee Assistance Programme
* Employee Benefits Programme, including discounted access to health insurance, financial well-being products, cycle to work and electric car schemes as well as discounts to a number of major retailers
* Fee discount
* A three course lunch is provided during term time