CraignDave is one of the most recognized names in UK Computer Science education. Created by Craig Sargent and Dave Hillyard, the platform has helped transform how Computer Science is taught and learned across England. From free YouTube tutorials to the powerful Smart Revise platform and classroom-ready teaching resources, CraignDave supports thousands of teachers and students every year. In 2026, their resources are used in over 1,000 schools, their YouTube channel has surpassed 22 million views, and Smart Revise serves more than 200,000 users.
Who Are CraignDave? Craig Sargent and Dave Hillyard
The success of CraignDave comes from the combined expertise of Craig Sargent and Dave Hillyard, both of whom have spent more than 25 years teaching ICT and Computer Science in England.
Craig Sargent holds a Computer Science degree and worked as a programmer for the Ministry of Defence (MoD) before moving into education. He later became a Computer Science department leader and earned recognition as a Computing at School Master Teacher.
Dave Hillyard also graduated with a Computer Science degree and began his career as an analyst programmer in civil and military aviation. Inspired by his own teachers, he transitioned into education, becoming a Computer Science leader, a University of Gloucestershire subject leader for initial teacher training, and later serving in senior leadership roles, including Chair of Governors and Vice Chair of a Multi-Academy Trust.
The History of CraignDave: From Curriculum Change to National Success
The CraignDave story began in 2014, when the UK national curriculum underwent a major transformation. Traditional ICT was replaced by Computing, requiring teachers to cover programming, computational thinking, and how computer systems actually work.
Many schools suddenly faced a shortage of specialist Computer Science teachers. To help bridge the gap, Craig and Dave began producing educational videos and classroom resources designed to support both teachers and students.
What started as a practical solution quickly became one of the UK’s most trusted educational brands. By 2026, CraignDave supports more than 1,000 schools and continues to grow.
CraignDave YouTube Channel: 22 Million+ Views and Counting
The CraignDave YouTube channel has become a go-to destination for GCSE Computer Science and A-Level Computer Science students.
Their content covers major exam board specifications, including:
- OCR Computer Science
- AQA Computer Science
- Edexcel Computer Science
Popular topics include:
- Binary and hexadecimal
- Logic gates
- Networks and cybersecurity
- Algorithms
- Programming concepts
- Computational thinking
- Exam preparation techniques
The channel’s teacher-led explanations make difficult concepts easier to understand. With more than 22 million views, it remains one of the most influential Computer Science education channels in the UK.
Smart Revise: CraignDave’s Learning Platform
One of the biggest developments from CraignDave is Smart Revise, a revision and learning platform designed specifically for Computer Science students.
In 2026, Smart Revise serves over 200,000 users and offers:
- Adaptive quizzes
- Knowledge organisers
- Progress tracking
- Exam-style questions
- Personalized revision pathways
- Instant feedback
The platform aligns closely with major GCSE specifications, including:
| Exam Board | Specification |
|---|---|
| OCR | J277 |
| AQA | 8525 |
| Edexcel | GCSE Computer Science |
Schools use Smart Revise for homework, intervention programs, and independent learning, helping students build confidence ahead of exams.
Classroom Resources Used in Over 1,000 Schools
Beyond videos and revision tools, CraignDave provides complete classroom resource packages that save teachers significant planning time.
Their materials include:
- Lesson presentations
- Worksheets
- Assessments
- Programming exercises
- Homework activities
- Teacher CPD resources
Because the resources are developed by experienced classroom practitioners, they remain highly relevant and practical. Schools appreciate that materials are regularly updated to reflect curriculum and specification changes.
CraignDave’s Impact on Computer Science Education
The influence of CraignDave extends far beyond online tutorials. Their mission has always been to make Computer Science accessible and engaging for both teachers and learners.
Key 2026 Achievements
- 22 million+ YouTube views
- 200,000+ Smart Revise users
- 1,000+ schools using resources
- 25+ years teaching experience each
- Strong involvement in teacher training and educational leadership
Their industry experience in areas such as defence programming, aviation systems, and teacher education gives their content real-world relevance that students appreciate.
How Students and Teachers Use CraignDave in 2026
Students typically use CraignDave to revise key topics, strengthen understanding, and prepare for exams. Structured playlists help learners work through Paper 1 Computer Systems and Paper 2 Algorithms and Programming in a logical order.
Teachers use CraignDave resources to deliver lessons, assign homework through Smart Revise, and stay updated through professional development opportunities linked to OCR, AQA, and Edexcel specifications.
Bottom Line
CraignDave 2026 remains one of the UK’s most trusted Computer Science education brands. Founded by Craig Sargent and Dave Hillyard, the platform emerged from the challenges of the 2014 Computing curriculum change and has grown into a nationwide educational resource. With 22 million+ YouTube views, 200,000+ Smart Revise users, and support for over 1,000 schools, CraignDave continues to play a vital role in helping students succeed and empowering teachers to deliver high-quality Computer Science education across the UK.