Teaching Programming with Confidence: Progression, Pedagogy & Practice

The day opens with registration, networking, and refreshments, before moving into an in-depth session on progression and pedagogy in programming. Attendees will explore core terminology, examined effective teaching approaches such as modelled, guided, and independent learning, and gain clarity on how programming concepts develop from the Early Years to Key Stage 2.

After a short break, the focus shifts to adaptive learning and assessment, highlighting strategies to ensure programming lessons are inclusive and accessible for diverse learners, including SEND and EAL pupils. Participants will also learn how to assess computational thinking and programming skills through both formative and summative methods.

The mid-day workshops offer hands-on practical experience. The first workshop focuses on Early Years and KS1, familiarising teachers with physical and unplugged resources to build foundational computational thinking and problem-solving skills. Following lunch, the second workshop centres on KS2, where delegates explore Micro:bits and Crumble kits to deepen understanding of inputs, outputs, data logging and the potential for introducing machine learning in the primary classroom.

To conclude the event, attendees will take part in a CPD reflection and action-planning session, ensuring they leave with clear next steps for embedding programming effectively within their school curriculum and supporting progression in line with national expectations.

Info: An opportunity to network with other attendees. Refreshments available for those attending in-person.

Info: · Understand key definitions and terminology in programming.

· Become familiar with effective pedagogical approaches for teaching programming, including modelled, guided, and independent learning strategies.

· Understand the progression of programming concepts from Early Years to Key Stage 2 and how to plan and deliver learning sequences that build skills systematically.

Info: · Be able to adapt programming lessons to meet the needs of diverse learners, including SEND and EAL pupils, ensuring inclusive and accessible learning experiences.


· Gain insights into assessing pupils’ computational thinking and programming skills, using both formative and summative approaches to inform teaching.

Info: · Explore resources that introduce computational thinking skills to build a foundational knowledge of problem solving.

· Become confident in delivering hands-on programming including unplugged resources and physical devices across Early Years and Key Stage 1.

Info: If you're joining virtually, please have a micro:bit with you, if possible, otherwise you can use the on-screen emulator. A crumble kit is also good to have but not essential. If you are joining in-person, these will be provided. 

· Develop an understanding of inputs and outputs by exploring hands-on activities using Micro:bits and Crumble kits.

· Understand how Micro:bits can be used to teach data logging and machine learning concepts across the primary curriculum.

Info: · Be able to develop a practical action plan for embedding programming effectively within the school curriculum, aligned with progression and national expectations.

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