Computing

Staff

Role 

Mr R. ArnoldHead of Department
Mrs C. Critchlow Teacher of Computing


Brief overview of the KS3 curriculum

The Computing curriculum features learning opportunities that will equip students with knowledge of computational thinking, programming fundamentals, cyber security and other key topics that are relevant to the modern world. The overarching objective of the Key Stage 3 curriculum is to ensure students can not only use computers and technology, but also explore how they work.


Brief Overview of KS3 Curriculum

Year 7Year 8Year 9
Introduction to School Systems  Cyber Security 1
Advanced Programming
Using Computers Safely, Effectively and ResponsiblyData Representation Digital Animation
NetworksMobile Application Development Data Science
Digital SkillsVector GraphicsRepresentations 'Audiovisual'
Scratch Programming 
Computer SystemsAdditional Cyber Security
SpreadsheetsProgrammingPhysical Programming


The curriculum is reviewed regularly to ensure it meets the needs of the students whilst also being topical and relevant to the world in which we live.


Brief overview of the KS4 curriculum

GCSE Computer Science

At the end of year 9 all students are given the option of selecting to complete a GCSE in Computer Science. This develops on from previous learning. The current qualification is 100% exam based which is assessed with two exams during the Summer exam window of year 11. There are various topics that cover a wide range of Computer Science.  Component one focuses on computer systems whereas component two features computational thinking and programming. Further information can be found on the OCR website

There is also an opportunity to engage with various programming tasks to a specification, or to solve a problem o (or problems), during their course study.


Exam Content – Topics Studied

Exam AExam B
Systems Architecture  Algorithms
Memory and Storage
Programming Fundamentals
Computer Networks Connections and ProtocolsProducing Robust Programs
Network Security
Boolean Logic
System Software
Programming Languages and Integrated Development Environments
Ethical, Legal, Cultural and Environmental Impacts of Digital Technology


Cambridge National in Creative iMedia

In addition to the GCSE in Computer Science, a Cambridge National in Creative iMedia is offered as an option in KS4. The aim of iMedia is to enhance students’ knowledge of the creative digital media sector. Pupils learn about the skills needed in when planning digital media projects and develop practical skills by creating multimedia products to a given specification. The assessment includes one examination and a number of coursework units.


Cambridge National in Creative iMedia – Course Content

Units - Legacy Qualification                                                                                                                  Units - Latest Qualification
R081: Pre-production skills                                                                                                                   R093: Creative iMedia in the media industry
R082: Creating digital graphics                                                                                                           R094: Visual identity and digital graphics
R084: Storytelling with a comic strip                                                                                               R095: Characters and comics
R087: Creating interactive multimedia products


ICT across the curriculum

The department appreciates the need for pupils to be competent in using word processing, presentation and other relevant software.  Skills are taught both implicitly and explicitly across KS3 and KS4.  We encourage students to be able to transfer their skills across the curriculum and make informed decisions on how best to use their ICT skills to enhance their work.


Facilities

There are two discrete ICT rooms that are fully equipped with multimedia computers.

There is an additional room used by all departments in school. These rooms are available for use by other subject areas so that ICT can be used to enhance the learning experience of students.

The department also heavily invests in innovative learning tools that will engage and inspire pupils. There is currently a substantial number of micro controllers,  sensors and robotics equipment frequently used to teach parts of the curriculum.  


Extra-curricular activities

The Computing/ICT area opens every lunchtime to allow students to use the facilities.  Students use the Computing/ICT facilities to complete homework tasks. This resource is fully supervised by staff. Key Stage 4 pupils have a dedicated day in which they can use the Computing/ICT classroom to complete work related to their studies.

During this academic year, clubs will also commence allowing pupils to develop their subject interest even further. Further details will be given to pupils in their Computing classes.


Useful Links

Below is a range of links which contain further information about the subject content.

OCR GCSE Computer Science
Cambridge National I- Media (legacy)

Cambridge National I-Media (latest)


Subject content/resources


Internet Safety

The internet is a fantastic resource, but it is important to stay safe online. These websites contain lots of important information about online safety: