ICT

The content of our Key Stage 3 syllabus presents a bespoke, engaging selection of activities that not only promote the attainment of high-level digital literacy skills, but also an appreciation of the impact of technology within society. The curriculum features a variety of theoretical and practical technological interactions that hope to enthuse our pupils towards an excitement for the analytical sciences.

Year 7 students study the importance of using technology safely, specifically personal online safety, both in terms of safeguarding and protecting their data. Pupils then complete units of work on computer components, Kodu programming and data handling.

Year 8 students find out how to search for information effectively and efficiently online using Boolean logic, as well as Python programming and units on audio visual editing and 3D design.

Year 9 students learn in more detail about computational thinking and website construction using HTML, as well as the impact ICT has on individuals and society as a whole.

Skills
During Years 7-9 pupils develop some basic database and spreadsheet competencies that develop logical thinking and planning skills. They also focus on elements of high-quality graphic design and develop their skills in information literacy. This involves consideration of different sources of information, search techniques, understanding the credibility of different sources and the importance of respecting intellectual property. Analytical and problem-solving skills are developed throughout the Computer Science curriculum with a focus on the fundamentals of programming using a number of different coding languages. All pupils develop their skills in using the standard applications forming part of the Microsoft Office software suite – Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Sway and Access.

Assessment
Pupils are assessed against National Curriculum standards at the end of each unit of work (typically four or five times a year). For some units this is based on a final summative piece of work for the unit; for others it is based on the work they have done throughout the unit. Pupils are also given an end-of-year assessment based on an extended practical task completed during the Summer Term. Homework is set once a week due to its on-going nature.

Additional educational experiences

• Pupils are encouraged to use ICT and Computer Science facilities to produce and present work for other subjects. The Computer Science room is available for this every lunchtime.
• Pupils are given regular opportunities to present their work to an outside audience, for example in the Eisteddfod or in competitions that involve using ICT and Computer Science.
• The Robotics club runs within the school week, and offers an outstanding opportunity for pupils to apply within a mechanical, competitive and sociable setting.

Depending on the preference indicated by our Year 9 cohort during their options process, we offer a selection of two possible choices within our GCSE offering.

ICT

This course is designed specifically for pupils who are interested in gaining superior computer-based skills and who wish to develop digital skills relevant to a wide range of employment options without the need to indulge in coding. The subject offers insight into an exciting array of topics, including:

• An in-depth consideration of digital devices, their relevant advantages and disadvantages, as well as selection of suitable devices based on context
• Networking and online services skills development, including topologies, standards and communications infrastructure, alongside web-based competencies such as source evaluation and searching skills.
• Practical aspects of computer use, including interaction with Microsoft products in order to present several relevant deliverables, web page design using HTML and CSS, as well as graphics authoring and multimedia design.

This course is assessed as follows:

Paper 1

• This is a written exam with multiple-choice, short and long answer questions.
• Digital Devices – software, digital devices, memory and processors
• Connectivity – digital communication and networks
• Operating Online – the impact of the internet, online communities and the implications of digital technologies
• Online Goods and Services – the cloud and online services

Paper 2

• This is an externally assessed practical examination.
• Applying Information and Communication Technology – produce ICT solutions in a range of different contexts
• Software Skills – word processing, database management, spreadsheets, web authoring, multimedia presentation and graphics

Computer Science

This course offers a more analytical, scientific consideration of computers and content development. For those interested in coding, development and design, this option is one that ticks all of the boxes. The course offers interaction with the following topics:

• Advanced theoretical engagement with components of computer architecture and systems, including hardware, software, networking and data representation.
• Consideration of the online environment through web page design using HTML, CSS and Javascript, analysis and prevention of web-based threats and vulnerabilities, and web page evaluation.
• A sizable portion of practical exposure to coding languages as used in product development. Pupils will be exposed to a number of different coding environments which could include aspects of Python, Java and web-based languages. A visual approach to programming is taken to ensure that the content remains accessible to all pupils. Aspects of software development and planning such as pseudocode, flowchart usage and robust programming techniques are also covered.

This course is assessed as follows:

Paper 1

This is a written exam of 1 hour and 30 minutes which accounts for 50% of the total GCSE 80 marks. This paper consists of a range of question types relating to topics such as systems architecture, networking, memory and storage, systems software and social implications of computer use.

Paper 2

This is also a written exam of 1 hour and 30 minutes which accounts for the other 50% of the total GCSE mark. This paper requires knowledge of algorithms, programming fundamentals, robust programming techniques and data representation to be demonstrated through both theoretical and practical application.

The A-Level Computer Science program is an enriching academic journey into the realm of computing systems and applications development, where the curriculum offers a broad spectrum of computer science topics. Dive into the fascinating world of algorithms, programming languages, and data structures, gaining a profound understanding of these fundamental concepts. The course delves into the intricacies of software development, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence, exploring cutting-edge technologies that drive today’s digital landscape.

The curriculum not only equips students with theoretical knowledge but also provides ample opportunities for practical coding. You’ll have hands-on experiences, designing your own applications in the form of a coursework assignment, and mastering the art of problem-solving. Through real-world projects, you’ll develop skills that are not just academically valuable but directly applicable in the technology industry. Let A-Level Computer Science be your stepping stone to a future where you shape the digital world with confidence and expertise.

The OCR course considers the following aspects:

• Computer Systems, including the characteristics of contemporary processors, software and software development, exchanging of data, data types, structures and algorithms as well as social implications of computer use.
• Advanced computational thinking and problem analysis, including practical problem solving using coding and development tools, algorithms and standard design techniques, data analysis and solution optimisation.
• A unique opportunity to involve oneself in the full cycle of the problem-solving process: Analysis, Design, Development and Evaluation.

This course is highly relevant not only to those who wish to pursue a career in Computer Science, but also those who wish to join corporate entities as developers, design specialists, risks analysts, artificial intelligence engineers and client use case advisors.

The course is assessed as follows:

Paper 1

This is a written paper of 2 hours and 30 minutes, encompassing short and longer questions based on elements of Computer Systems. This paper amounts to 40% of the total A-level grade.

Paper 2:

This is a written paper of 2 hours and 30 minutes, encompassing short and longer questions based on elements of Algorithmic Thinking. This paper amounts to 40% of the total A-level grade.