Computing

Work in Computing is digitally submitted through Google Classroom which drives academic, personal and digital skills for future learning and employment. The Library is open every lunchtime and after school if students need to access a computer to complete work or homework.

Key Stage 3

Our KS3 curriculum is both fun and stretching covering aspects of computer science, digital literacy and IT creativity. Students also explore termly extended learning projects e.g AI, Robotics, Ethics of Computing which develop oracy, literacy and wider citizenship. Students are taught on a spiral curriculum where knowledge and skills are developed throughout the course from Years 7 to 9. 

In Year 7, students explore contact and conduct online, how to apply data modelling in Google Sheets, Networking design and hardware, how databases work and the principles of programming (sequence, selection and Iteration) through Python.

In Year 8, students study parts of Computer Systems, Vector graphic design, Networking and cyber security threats, designing animation and media, creating algorithms and designing and developing efficient Python programming solutions.

In Year 9, students explore the impact of data and utilise the power of data to create effective dashboards. They also explore wider cyber-security threats in society and the risks which can impact individuals and businesses. Students get creative in digital media, and focus on the design lifecycle in developing a Python program and designing a solution in the summer term.

Key Stage 4 - GCSE Computer Science

This qualification builds on the foundation of knowledge acquired at Key Stage 3 and is a mixture of theory and practical contexts with problem solving as a key component.

The course is assessed by 100% examination with 1 written exam and 1 practical on screen examination based on Python Programming language.

Exam Board: Edexcel GCSE Computer Science 1CP2.

The course covers 5 key areas:

Topic 1: Computational Thinking

Topic 2: Data

Topic 3: Computers

Topic 4: Networks

Topic 5: Issues and Impact

Topic 6: Problem Solving with programming

Year 10

Year 11

Key Stage 4 - BTEC Tech Award in Digital Information Technology

This qualification also builds on the foundation of knowledge at Key Stage 3 offering a vocational option with a mixture of theory and practical exploration of modern computing in society.

The course is assessed in three components, Components 1 and 2 are internal assessments worth 60% (30% each) and 1 written exam on effective digital working practices worth 40%.

The main focus is on four areas of equal importance, which cover the:

•  Development of key skills in Digital Information Technology, such as project planning, designing and creating user interfaces, creating dashboards to present and interpret data
•  Process that underpins effective ways of working in digital information technology, such as project planning, the iterative design process, cyber security, virtual teams, legal and ethical codes of conduct
•  Attitudes that are considered most important in digital information technology, including personal management and communication
•  Knowledge that underpins effective use of skills, process and attitudes in the sector such as how different user interfaces meet user needs, how organisations collect and use data to make decisions, virtual workplaces, cyber security and legal and ethical issues.

Year 10

Year 11

For more information on the subject and to review the BTEC specification from the exam board please click here

Extended Learning / Extra Curricular Activities

Outside the main lessons, we aim to support students in accessing IT facilities so that they can use them for learning. 

We have engaging and exciting extended learning projects each term exploring topics of computing which we experience in everyday life.

Why Computing?

By studying computing, learners will develop their creativity and problem solving skills by giving them requirements to create digital products, and express themselves using suitable software. They will develop computational thinking skills in different contexts in preparation for future employment or study. They will develop a rich and varied technical vocabulary and be able to engage in their work independently whilst being active readers, effective writers and confident speakers.

The core of Computing is Computer Science, where studentss explore Computer Systems, how digital systems work and the development of a solution through Programming and Design. Students also explore IT skills to understand networking and create programs and digital content.

Computing also ensures that pupils become digitally literate with the necessary skills and knowledge to be an effective, safe and discerning user of a range of computer systems. We teach research approved content from the UK Council for Internet Safety's (UKCIS) framework “Education for a Connected World”. Computing has excellent STEM links in particular with  science, engineering, mathematics and the arts.

We also run after school intervention sessions for Year 11, which focuses on examination questions and techniques.

For more information please contact Mr S James, Computing Subject Leader.

To find out more, please click on this link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/education-for-a-connected-world