Departmental approach to the Curriculum.
Our curriculum covers all aspects of Computing: Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy. Creativity and computational thinking underpin the new computing programmes of study. We have developed a broad and balanced school curriculum that enables learners to develop their skills across these areas.
Programming is a key part of the new computing curriculum, but not its sole component. The new curriculum enables learners to explore digital creativity and focuses on the fundamental concepts of computing. Technology enhanced learning (TEL) and Digital literacy play a key role in helping learners develop their competences with current technology.
The Faculty offers a range of extra-curricular opportunities and has excellent links to local technology companies.
Pupils have opportunities at Key Stage 3 to explore all the 3 key areas of the Computing subject – namely Computer Science, IT/Digital Literacy and Creative Media. Students are taught throughout by specialist Computing teachers.
Computing is a fun and interesting discipline, offering the opportunity to develop creativity and critical thinking skills which can be transferred to other subjects and even applied in day-to-day life. In this way, our courses are interesting and engaging and lead to high take-up rates and superb progression into further study at Key Stage 4.
This is an engaging, contemporary course with an emphasis on giving you an in-depth understanding of how computer technology works and a look at what goes on “behind the scenes”. You also write your own code and “create” things rather than just “consuming” software written by others.
The critical thinking, analysis and problem solving skills developed are at the centre of a 21st century skill base, regardless of the career to be pursued. Indeed, Computer Science has been described as “the new Latin”, and writing code as “21st Century literacy”.
Unit 1 - Written Examination
1 ½ hour examination
Focussing on Computer Systems, Networking and Cyber Security
Unit 2 - Written Examination
1 ½ hour examination
Focussing on problem solving and computational thinking
Non Examined Assessment
Range of practical coding tasks. Design, develop, test and refine solutions to given practical problems.
Traditional jobs are disappearing and ones in new areas such as technology are growing rapidly. There is enormous demand for professionals who are qualified in this subject. If students want to go on to higher study in the field of Computer Science, Engineering, Science or Technology, then they will find that this course provides a superb stepping stone. Learners who have taken a Computer Science GCSE and who then progress to study the subject at A Level or university will have an excellent underpinning knowledge of this subject area. The GCSE prepares you for life and work and provides an excellent foundation for any further courses, including those specific to the use of computers. A good pass at GCSE allows you to progress onto Advanced level courses. A range of very attractive Higher Apprenticeship and sponsored Higher Education opportunities are on offer from local companies in the IT sector.