Post Graduate Assistant Teacher of Computer Science

An opportunity has arisen at Harrow for a Post Graduate Assistant Teacher (PGAT) of Computer Science from September 2026. The post comes with a generous package, including:

• Rent-free accommodation provided on the Hill;
• Health cover provided free of charge for you and at a reduced rate for any members of your immediate family that you may wish to add;
• All meals are provided free of charge during term time.

PGAT appointments are fixed term contracts and are typically for one academic year, with the possibility of the contract being renewed for a second year. PGATs teach a reduced timetable, typically including no more than 20 timetabled lessons of 40 minute duration per week, and assist in departments more generally in ways appropriate to their experience and ability. The School provides training in skills both related to teaching and transferable to other professions.

The role of PGAT will allow those interested in pursuing a career in teaching to gain directly relevant experience and training, and those more likely to move into another profession beyond the end of their time at Harrow to acquire skills beneficial for their future careers in other areas, including banking, consultancy and the law.

Computer Science is one of the most dynamic and rapidly expanding departments in the School, playing a central role in equipping boys with the technical fluency and critical thinking skills needed to thrive in the digital world. The department’s forward‑looking curriculum is both rigorous and creative, placing strong emphasis on problem‑solving, innovation and hands‑on experience from the outset.

In the Shell year (Year 9), boys begin with an introduction to cyber‑safety, digital hygiene and touch‑typing, alongside structured use of digital tools to support their broader academic progress. They then move on to a course in artificial intelligence, where they explore key theoretical concepts and real‑world applications in machine learning. Programming is introduced through Python, with boys undertaking a range of ambitious projects including mathematical modelling, scientific analysis, and game development. Later in the year, they apply their skills in designing and programming intelligent robots capable of performing complex tasks.

In the Remove and Fifth Forms (Years 10 and 11), boys follow the CAIE IGCSE Computer Science course (0478). This builds on the strong foundation established in Shell and introduces a deeper study of algorithms, system architecture and software development. Practical work remains central: boys design and test their own programs, work with hardware such as Raspberry Pi and gaming systems, and complete an independent project in the summer between Remove and Fifth Form.

At A level, boys study the Cambridge International Computer Science syllabus, which provides a robust and intellectually demanding grounding in computational theory and software engineering. The course fosters creativity and precision in equal measure, with topics including data structures, systems design, programming paradigms and algorithmic analysis. Boys gain significant experience in developing software to solve real‑world problems, preparing them for further study in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cybersecurity and Engineering. A number of boys go on to study Computer Science at leading universities in the UK and overseas.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with interviews offered as applications are received. We recognise that this term coincides with university exams and will schedule interviews with sensitivity to academic commitments. Equality, diversity and inclusion are values that are important to us at Harrow. We believe in diversity of thought and actively welcome everyone regardless of their background to bring their valuable and relevant skills to our community. The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All successful applicants must be willing to undergo enhanced child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with any past employer and the Disclosure and Barring Service. It is an offence to apply for the role if the applicant is barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children.