“In fifteen years, we’ll be teaching programming just like reading and writing … and wondering why we didn’t do it sooner.” – Mark Zuckerberg
Computers are now an integral part of everyday life, and for most of us, technology is essential both at home and at work. Computing skills are a key factor in enabling children to become confident, creative, and independent learners. It is our goal to ensure that every child has the opportunity to develop these skills, allowing them to compete with any other student across the country.
In Computing, we are committed to equipping our students with the skills necessary to embrace a future shaped by rapidly evolving computer technology. We ensure that all pupils:
- Have the ability to solve problems and tackle real-world challenges independently, confidently, and creatively.
- Become fluent in the fundamentals of computing, which are essential for everyday life, academic success, and future careers.
- Analyse problems in computational terms and gain extensive practical experience in writing computer programs to solve these problems.
- Design, develop, and create new technologies that will be used in the world they live in.
KS3
At KS3, we provide a broad range of skills and experiences that are further developed as students’ progress to KS4. The focus will be on understanding and applying the fundamental principles of Computer Science to solve any problem they encounter. They will also have the opportunity to explore Creative iMedia, allowing them to apply their skills in innovative and creative ways, particularly in graphic design.
Key topics include:
- E-safety
- Programming
- Web Design
- Networks
- Graphics
- Data Representation
- Computational Thinking
- Components of a Computer System
KS4
GCSE Computer Science (OCR) and Creative iMedia (Cambridge Nationals)
At KS4, all students are given the opportunity to study either GCSE Computer Science or Cambridge Nationals Creative iMedia. Creative iMedia equips students with a wide range of IT skills used in the modern world, including graphic design, media production, and web development.
In GCSE Computer Science, students will gain a deep understanding of key principles such as computational thinking, programming, data representation, and computer systems. They will explore topics like algorithms, cybersecurity, data types, networks, and the ethical and legal implications of technology. These concepts form the foundation for understanding how computers work and how problems are solved in the digital world.
Students will apply computational thinking to break down complex problems through decomposition and abstraction, using logic and Boolean operators to make decisions in their programs. They will gain practical experience in writing algorithms and coding solutions in languages such as Python, focusing on key programming techniques like sequence, selection, iteration, and error handling.
In addition, students will study how data is represented in computers, covering binary, hexadecimal, and ASCII encoding, and learn how data is stored and transferred in networks. They will also explore cybersecurity, including encryption, firewalls, and data protection laws, to understand how to protect systems from threats.
The course emphasizes the importance of writing clear, efficient, and maintainable code. Students will design, develop, and debug programs to solve real-world problems, enhancing their ability to identify and fix issues in their code.
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KS5
A-Levels Computer Science (OCR)
The KS5 Curriculum provides students with the opportunity to build on their previous knowledge and further develop the skills needed to excel in the A-level Computer Science course. The curriculum is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of computer science, focusing on both theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Component 1: Computer Science Fundamentals
In Component 1, students are introduced to the internal architecture of the Central Processing Unit (CPU), data exchange, and software development. Key topics covered include:
- CPU architecture: How the processor works and how data is processed.
- Data exchange: Understanding how data is transmitted between different components and devices.
- Software development: An introduction to how software is developed, including key principles and methodologies.
- Data types: How they are used in programming and system design.
- Legal and ethical issues: An overview of the ethical, legal, and social implications of computing, including issues such as privacy, intellectual property, and cybersecurity.
Component 2: Advanced Computer Science Concepts
Component 2 builds upon the content covered in Component 1 and focuses on computational thinking and problem-solving. Students will engage with advanced topics such as:
- Computational thinking: Developing the ability to approach complex problems with logical, algorithmic thinking.
- Problem-solving: Applying algorithms and programming skills to solve real-world problems.
Component 3: Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) – Coursework
In addition to the written components, students are required to complete Component 3, the Non-Exam Assessment (NEA), which involves a practical project. The NEA allows students to demonstrate their skills in programming, problem-solving, and system design.
The NEA covers the following stages:
- Analysis: Identifying and analysing the problem to be solved, understanding the requirements, and defining the scope of the solution.
- Design: Creating a detailed plan for how the problem will be solved, including algorithm design and system architecture.
- Development: Implementing the design, writing the code, and creating the solution. Students will apply different programming techniques to create efficient and functional code.
- Testing: Testing the system to ensure it meets the requirements and performs as expected.
- Evaluation: Reflecting on the project, identifying areas for improvement, and evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of the solution.
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