Computer Science and ICT Curriculum Intent
ICT and Computing department is a dynamic department at the cutting edge of technology.
At KS3 the subject is taught to pupils who are working in groups of similar ability, the groups are frequently assessed to allow pupils to move up or down sets. KS4 groups are for pupils who have opted for one of the subject and are taught to pupils of mixed ability.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum overview for Computing
The curriculum overviews above are clickable guides to the detailed learning plan for the subject.
Click anywhere on the overview to show the learning plan for that year group.
Key Stage 3
At Key Stage 3 pupils follow a diverse curriculum which includes computing, ICT and business studies.
In year 7 pupils look at e-safety, financial modelling and basic computer games programming. They then develop these skills in year 8 with graphics skills, data handling, more advanced programming and modelling. Year 9 pupils work on line code programming, business modelling, html web design and further web design using Dreamweaver.
Key Stage 4 GCSE
At KS4 there are a number of pathways that pupils can opt for these are GCSE ICT, AiDA and/or Business Studies.
GCSE ICT
Students study the Edexcel GCSE ICT. This academic course is broken down as 60% controlled assessment and 40% formal examination. During the coursework students learn topics including advanced modelling, structured research, database design and manipulation, web design and multimedia presentation. Topics studied for the exam are updated frequently reflecting the dynamic nature of the subject. Currently these include smartphones, integrated communications, network architecture, computer architecture and associated peripherals.
CiDA
Edexcel CiDA is a skills based ICT course that allows pupils to develop their skills for real applications. The course involves 75% coursework and 25% online skills based exam. During the coursework, unit 2, creative multimedia, pupils study how to make and edit video and animations for a range of audiences. Student use a wide range of ICT skills and tool to create these products. Work is then presented as an electronic portfolio. In the examination section of the course students are given a brief to design a website, they are given 2.5 hours to create a website with appropriate images, graphics, text, animations and java applets as necessary.
The Curriculum Team:
Mr C. Blackburn (Curriculum Leader)
Mr P. Chohan
Mr S. Hussain
