Computing
Curriculum Intent
Computing is the central nucleus of the information processing revolution. Our aim is to equip students to use computational thinking skills and creativity to understand and change the world. Computing has three strands namely Information Technology, Digital Literacy and Computer Science. These three strands give students a broad perspective of the world around them and provide insight into both natural and artificial systems. Undoubtedly Computer Science sits at the heart of these three strands, where students learn the principles of algorithm and computation.
Students will learn how to use Information Technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Digital Literacy teaches students how to develop their ideas and express themselves to take their rightful place in society.
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Key Stage 3 |
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At Key stage 3 Computing is taught as discrete units, where each unit focuses on one or a combination of the three strands (Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy). The aim is to get students to:
By the end of key stage 3, students will learn at least two programming languages of which at least one will be a text based programming language. |
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Key Stage 4 |
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At GCSE we offer two qualifications in the department.
The course is assessed by two written papers. Paper 1 assesses computational thinking, code tracing, problem solving, writing and testing algorithms and contributes 50% of the overall grade. Paper 2 assesses the theoretical aspects of Computer Science and contributes 50% to the overall grade.
This qualification is ideal for students who are pursuing a career in IT, as it develops your digital skills. |
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Key Stage 5 |
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At A-Level we study the AQA specification. The course is divided into two halves - programming and Theory. We study advanced programming concepts such as object oriented programming, functional programming, SQL and the use of data structures. On the theoretical side we focus on the theory of computation, computer architecture, communication and networking and legal, moral, ethical issues surrounding the use of Computing. The course is assessed through a written paper (40%), an online examination involving significant programming tasks (40%) and a non examination assessment where students develop a fully fledged software for a client (20%). |
Where can Computer Science take me?
Computer Science is a very important subject, it provides access to a lot of university courses, apprenticeships and prepares students for the working world. After studying Computer Science you can become a computer programmer, network administrator, database manager, graphic designer, software engineer, teacher, professor.