Computing
We provide high-quality computing education that equips students with problem-solving skills for a digital world.
Curriculum Intent
Computing has deep links with mathematics, science and design and technology, and provides insight into both natural and artificial systems.
The core of computing is computer science. Pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work and how to put this knowledge to use through programming.
Problem solving skills are central to the course, and students learn to apply computational thinking concepts including abstraction, decomposition, pattern recognition and algorithmic thinking.
Computing provides a way for students to improve their digital literacy, to be able to use and express themselves using information technology and to develop skills for the future workplace.
We want students to become caring and active members of the digital world.
Key Stage 3
In KS3 students focus on building a foundation of core computing concepts, digital literacy and IT skills which can help them in different aspects of their life.
These core concepts include how computers work, how data is stored in different formats and how information is sent over the internet.
IT skills covered include programming, creating websites, physical computing and IT skills for work.
The curriculum allows students to build their computational thinking and problem solving skills which can be applied to many other subjects.
Key Stage 4
Students who choose to study GCSE Computer Science will build on the foundations of KS3 Computing.
Topics covered include computer systems architecture, memory and storage, computer networks, network security and system software. Students will also learn about the ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns of IT, algorithms, programming, Boolean logic and programming languages.
Computer Science is engaging and practical, encouraging creativity and problem solving. It encourages students to develop their understanding and application of the core concepts in computer science.
Students also analyse problems in computational terms and devise creative solutions by designing, writing, testing and evaluating programs.
Key Stage 5
A Level Computer Science is relevant to the modern and changing world of computing. It focuses on computational thinking, helping students to develop the skills to solve problems, design systems and understand the power and limits of human and machine intelligence.
Students will complete a programming project, which introduces students to ‘post-school’ life and is of particular relevance to Higher Education and the workplace. Students are able to tailor their project to fit their individual needs, choices and aspirations.
In KS5 students will develop an understanding and ability to apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science and develop analytical and problem solving skills, capacity for creative thinking, ability to determine relationships between computer science and mathematics and the ability to articulate the opportunities and risks presented by digital technology.
