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[1]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 task.
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.
Christine Ryan
020 8872 8003
ryancs@harrowschool.org.uk
