Our curriculum is designed to enable our pupils to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in the information age. We aim to provide a broad and balanced curriculum that includes IT, Computing and Digital literacy. We acknowledge that our pupils come with experiences of using ICT outside the classroom.

Through an innovative and challenging curriculum, we turn their knowledge and skills into an ICT qualification that prepares them for life beyond school. Students have five lessons a fortnight.

Key Stage 3

In Years 7 and 8, the department gives students the opportunity to study computer science and experience computer science in three areas, including digital literacy, information technology and computing, as recommended by the Department for Education to lay the foundation and prepare students for their learning and options choice for GCSE.

In Year 9, pupils study a wide range of topics to prepare them for GCSE studies at Key Stage 4. This also develops computing and ICT skills that can be transferred to other subjects, extending their learning across the curriculum. The topics include:

• Spreadsheet modelling
• Computer hardware and software
• Binary
• Introduction to Python
• Understanding computers
• Computer crime and cybersecurity
• Networks
• HTML and web development

Key Stage 4

The Computer Science department offers two pathways. Pupils have the option to study computer science or the BTEC in Digital information technology.

BTEC in Digital Information Technology

The BTEC in Digital Information Technology offers pupils the opportunity to investigate and demonstrate their understanding of the digital world. Pupils will explore:

• User interface principles and project planning techniques
• Collecting, presenting and interpreting data
• Effective digital working practices.

Computer Science

In computer science, pupils will study computer systems and computational thinking, algorithms and programming:

• Systems architecture
• Memory and storage
• Computer networks, connections and protocols
• Network security
• Systems software
• Ethical, legal, cultural and environmental impacts of digital technology
• Algorithms
• Programming fundamentals
• Producing robust programmes
• Boolean logic
• Programming languages and Integrated