Computer Science
Computer Science is taught in four purpose-built computer suites, located in the main Technology block. These suites are all equipped with Dell Windows 11 workstations, MicroBits (credit card sized programmable microcontrollers) Raspberry Pi’s (mini Linux computers) and robotics kits. Our students will leave the school prepared for the digital world, with IT skills and an underlying appreciation of how computer systems work. This knowledge will allow them to take advantage of new technology as it develops throughout their lifetimes.
KEY STAGE 3
All students in Years 7 -9 undertake dedicated Computer Science lessons as we follow the National Curriculum requirements for Computing. Using Office 365 students undertake a diverse range of topics aimed at building skills and confidence in using computers to solve problems. Developing computational thinking helps students to understand how they can use hardware and software to create solutions to real life problems. The school uses MicroBit MCUs to bring computing off the screen and robotics (computerised control systems) to engage and inform the students in a subject that is becoming ubiquitous in our daily lives. 3D modelling is introduced to the students in year 9, using the industry standard Blender software, allowing the students to experience 3D creation in digital and virtual worlds.
KEY STAGE 4
All students in Key stage 4 have the opportunity to pursue a qualification in Computer Science. The school delivers the OCR Computer Science 9-1 GCSE which has proved to be a popular choice with students, and many have continued to develop the programming skills that they gained in Key stage 3. The GCSE in Computer Science is a hugely dynamic course that lifts the lid on how computers operate and manage data and the hardware involved (with in-depth theory of the construction of the CPU), along with learning advanced programming techniques in Python, and other languages such as C# and Lua.
KEY STAGE 5
At Key stage 5 students interested in exploring Computer Science at advanced level undertake the OCR A Level Computer Science course which builds upon knowledge and understanding already acquired in the GCSE course. The course has in depth computing theory and a large programming coursework element in which the students create their own application or game from the ground up. This is ideal for students looking to go into higher education.
The school runs the Pearson BTEC in Game Design, where students can explore the creative side of computing, by generating assets for computer games in 3D, learn 2D concept art skills and create their own computer games using industry standard game engines such as Unity and Defold.
Students looking for a more career-oriented opportunity in the Computer Science industry can undertake the Cambridge Technical Diploma in ICT which is a challenging and innovative programme of study involving ICT applications and programming, along with some business and game design elements that can be tailored to the student’s needs.
Many of our students go on to successfully pursue degree courses in the IT and Computing industry.
All students in Years 7 -9 undertake dedicated Computer Science lessons as we follow the National Curriculum requirements for Computing. Using Office 365 students undertake a diverse range of topics aimed at building skills and confidence in using computers to solve problems. Developing computational thinking helps students to understand how they can use hardware and software to create solutions to real life problems. The school uses MicroBit MCUs to bring computing off the screen and robotics (computerised control systems) to engage and inform the students in a subject that is becoming ubiquitous in our daily lives. 3D modelling is introduced to the students in year 9, using the industry standard Blender software, allowing the students to experience 3D creation in digital and virtual worlds.
KEY STAGE 4
All students in Key stage 4 have the opportunity to pursue a qualification in Computer Science. The school delivers the OCR Computer Science 9-1 GCSE which has proved to be a popular choice with students, and many have continued to develop the programming skills that they gained in Key stage 3. The GCSE in Computer Science is a hugely dynamic course that lifts the lid on how computers operate and manage data and the hardware involved (with in-depth theory of the construction of the CPU), along with learning advanced programming techniques in Python, and other languages such as C# and Lua.
KEY STAGE 5
At Key stage 5 students interested in exploring Computer Science at advanced level undertake the OCR A Level Computer Science course which builds upon knowledge and understanding already acquired in the GCSE course. The course has in depth computing theory and a large programming coursework element in which the students create their own application or game from the ground up. This is ideal for students looking to go into higher education.
The school runs the Pearson BTEC in Game Design, where students can explore the creative side of computing, by generating assets for computer games in 3D, learn 2D concept art skills and create their own computer games using industry standard game engines such as Unity and Defold.
Students looking for a more career-oriented opportunity in the Computer Science industry can undertake the Cambridge Technical Diploma in ICT which is a challenging and innovative programme of study involving ICT applications and programming, along with some business and game design elements that can be tailored to the student’s needs.
Many of our students go on to successfully pursue degree courses in the IT and Computing industry.
