Levelling Up: Computer Science

Five academic sessions in Levelling Up: Computer Science have been developed by the BCS to inspire potential Computer Science students. They can be delivered in a variety of ways, (virtual, in-person or hybrid) via small tutorial groups, led by undergraduates from the hosting Computer Science department.  

Four non-academic sessions, considered to be part of a university’s usual outreach activities, often delivered in conjunction with the Widening Participation team.  

A central component of this new initiative is the engagement with local schools. There is significant scope to strengthen these mutually beneficial relationships.  

BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT endorses and supports the scheme, and provides all the necessary materials, but the responsibility for implementing the scheme lies with each participating university. 

• All learning materials for the programme – AI and Machine Learning, Creative Coding, Cyber Security & Digital Forensics, Data Science, Environmental Modelling, Human Computer Interaction
• Endorsement of the scheme and the associated use of branding 
• Overview of the scheme and general tips/advice on running it
• Material for each session (including pre-reading, tutor notes, problems, solutions)
• Regular community meetings to share experiences with other participating universities 

• Setting appropriate definitions of “underserved groups” 
• Working with local schools and colleges to recruit A Level students
•  Selecting A Level students who meet the agreed criteria 
• Obtaining appropriate privacy statements for use of online conference platforms
• Providing a platform for the sessions (including safeguarding considerations, etc.)
•  Appropriate scheduling of sessions for the duration of the programme  
• Deciding on additional sessions, as seems appropriate  
  On-going mentoring for the tutors 
• Paying undergraduate tutors (including DBS checks)

Elaine highlighted several factors that contributed to the programme's success:

• High-quality, adaptable resources that mentors could tailor to their audience.
• Near-peer mentoring, with young mentors creating an engaging and relatable learning experience.
• A strong emphasis on active participation, including attendance, homework and discussion.
• Consistent support from university staff, with Elaine attending sessions to support mentors and answer questions about studying computer science.

The programme followed the Levelling Up structure closely, while allowing mentors the flexibility to add relevant practical activities and examples.

One of the most powerful outcomes was the level of engagement from participants. Following the programme, many students contacted Elaine directly with questions about computer science and studying at UCL. The experience has encouraged UCL to expand its offer further. As a next step, the university is exploring opportunities to invite programme completers onto campus for a dedicated visit, helping participants strengthen their connection with higher education and computer science pathways.

UCL's approach demonstrates how Levelling Up: Computer Science can be delivered flexibly across both online and face-to-face settings, combining structured content, enthusiastic student mentors and meaningful university engagement. The model successfully reached over 100 young people, maintained strong completion rates, and generated lasting interest in computing and higher education opportunities.