Computing

Our high quality and forward thinking computing programme will equip pupils with the skills and understanding to play an active role in today’s digital world.

Computing is taught in purpose-built, air-conditioned rooms with high specification machines running a diverse range of modern applications. Pupils will use an array of different hardware and software options to provide a diverse learning environment.

Through studying aspects of digital literacy, information technology and computer science, we will develop young adults who are able to express themselves across a variety of digital technologies, who are able to create and utilise digital systems to solve real world issues, and who are able to apply computational thinking to logical problems.

Digital Literacy – involves teaching the pupils to be able to create, consume and evaluate information from a wide variety of sources.

Information Technology – involves teaching pupils not only how to use different types of applications, but how to develop their own.

Computer Science – involves teaching pupils the fundamentals principles of information and computation, developing their skills in logical and computational thinking.

Years 7 – 9

Year 7 and 8 pupils study a varied programme to enable them to become competent users, consumers, and creators of digital products, covering topics such as Basic Programming & Computing theory, 3D Modelling & Animation, Digital Literacy and competence in Office and Desktop Publishing Software.

In Year 9, pupils continue to study a programme designed to give them an experience of both of the current GCSE options – Computer Science and Information Communication Technology (ICT). This provides them with the skills and experience to make an informed choice of which strand to pursue at GCSE. These covers: Programming, Image Editing, 3D Modelling and intermediate skills in Office and Desktop Publishing Software.

GCSE

Pupils can choose between IGCSE ICT or GCSE Computer Science, but may not study both.

Information & Communication Technology (ICT)

The Edexcel IGCSE course in ICT enables pupils to explore the impact digital technology has on the lives of individuals, organisations and society. Pupils learn about current and emerging digital technologies and the issues raised by their use in a range of contexts. They will develop an awareness of the risks inherent in using ICT and the features of safe, secure and responsible practice, and will broaden and enhance their ICT skills and capabilities by working with a range of digital tools and techniques to produce effective ICT solutions.

Paper 1: Written Paper (50%). This 90 minute written examination assesses knowledge and understanding of Digital Devices, Connectivity, Operating Online and Online Goods and Services.

Paper 2: Practical Paper (50%) This 3-hour practical examination will assess the practical application of knowledge acquired during the course to produce two ICT-based solutions. The examination comprises one practical assignment from a choice of two.

Computer Science

The Edexcel GCSE course in Computer Science aims to develop knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles of Computer Science and to imbue pupils with core programming skills. They will develop and apply computational thinking skills to analyse problems and identify solutions across a range of contexts, gaining practical experience of designing, writing and testing computer programs that accomplish specific goals.

The course comprises: key concepts of algorithms; binary representation of data; structured query languages to insert, update and select data stored in a database; construction of truth tables to test logical statements; and appropriate use of computer networks. This theoretical knowledge will be applied to a diverse range of software programming tasks using the Python programming language.

Practical Paper (50%) – This 120 minute practical examination will assess computational thinking and programming skills including good programming practices.

Written Paper (50%) – This 90 Minute written examination will assess both the theoretical knowledge and computational understanding of Networks, Effects & Consequences of Digital Devices, Hardware, Software and Problem Solving Skills.

A Level

Computer Science (AQA)

The AQA course in Computer Science has been designed to be relevant to the modern and changing world of computing, as well as preparation for Higher Education and industry. Pupils will learn to apply the principles learned in the classroom to real-world systems. The course values computational thinking, helping pupils to develop the skills to solve problems, design systems and understand the power and limits of human and machine intelligence. They will develop an ability to analyse, critically evaluate and make decisions. They will undertake a personal project, which can be tailored to suit their individual needs, choices, and aspirations.

The course has two mandatory components and an additional programming project component. The two mandatory components are assessed by an external exam in Upper Sixth, while the programming project is assessed internally.

Course Structure

• Written Paper – Computer Systems & Theory (40% of marks).
• Practical Paper – Theory and Live Programming (40% of marks).
• None Examination Assessment (NEA) – Programming Project (20% of marks).

The NEA will allow the pupils to analyse, design, develop, test, evaluate and document a program written to solve a problem. Pupils will have to apply appropriate principles from an agile development approach to the project.

Requirements

Although a GCSE (Grade 6 or higher) in Computer Science is preferable, it is not essential. Strong mathematical and problem-solving skills, and a genuine interest in how computers work, are essential. A minimum of Grade 6 in GCSE Mathematics is required.