Computing

Curriculum Leader for Computing and C.A.T. Faculty
Mrs J Bennett

ICT is changing and is now called Computing. Pupils now learn how to build and run programs in a number of different languages. They will also learn to use applications that allow them to use their creative side. The emphasis is on problem solving and choosing the right tools to solve these problems. We still cover some ICT topics and pupils will also learn about how to become digitally literate.

Year 7

As pupils are increasingly coming from primary schools with experience of writing simple computer programs they will build on this by using a number of languages including scratch and looking at the BBC Micro:bits

They will learn how to use a spreadsheet model and develop basic programming language skills such as Python.

Year 8

In Year 8 pupils will extend their programming knowledge by learning basic Python programming language and investigating the BBC Micro:bits in more detail . They will also look at the creative aspects of Computing by investigating stop frame animations and looking into website design and exploring a variety of Publisher features and internet searching techniques.

Year 9

Pupils will build a fully featured website using Serif WebPlus and be introduced to the HTML markup language. To prepare students who may choose GCSE Computing for Year 10/11 pupils will also learn the fundamentals of the Python programming language and discover computational thinking.

Year 10 and 11: Computing

At option time students can choose from either GCSE Computer Science or BTEC Creative Media Productions.

Edexcel GCSE Computing

Course Outline: This is challenging course with an emphasis on giving you an in-depth understanding of how computer technology works and a look at what goes on “behind the scenes”. You will also write your own code and create working programs rather than just using software written by others.

What will it be like and who will it suit?: Students will learn to analyse and research problems, build solutions using algorithms, test and modify their work. Because of the mathematical demands of the course students applying for this option must be able to achieve a Grade 5 in mathematics by the end of Year 9. This course focuses on the technical and not the aesthetic aspects of using a computer.

The course is made up of 2 components. The first component is called Principals of Computer Science and you will learn about how the physical parts of a computer system work. The second component is called Application of Computational Thinking and you will learn about programming techniques, logic and data.

How is it Assessed?: Component 1 is examined by a written examination of 1 hour 30 minutes – 50%

Component 2 is examined by a on screen exam of 2 hours – 50%

BTEC Creative Media Productions

Course Outline: The course is made up of 3 components. The first component is called Exploring Media Products and you will develop understanding of how media products create meaning for their audiences and purposes and you will deconstruct existing products and learn about a range of media production techniques. The second component is called Developing Digital Media Production Skills and you will learn about developing skills and techniques in media production processes by reworking an existing media product. Component 3 is called Create a Media Product in Response to a Brief, this is where you will respond to a client brief and create a product in one of the following media sectors: audio/moving image, publishing or interactive.

How is it Assessed?: Component 1 is internally assessed and is 36 learning hours.  Component 2 is internally assessed and is 36 learning hours. Component 3 is externally assessed and is 48 learning hours. It is graded as Level 2 Distinction, Level 2 Merit, Level 2 Pass, Level 1 Merit, Level 1 pass

Curriculum Information

  • Artsmark Platinum Award - Awards by Arts Council England
  • Lancashire Socio-economic Equality Badge
  • SMART
  • UNICEF
  • School Mental Health Award
  • Ofsted - Outstanding Provider
  • International School Award
  • Artsmark Platinum Award - Awards by Arts Council England
  • Lancashire Socio-economic Equality Badge
  • SMART
  • UNICEF
  • School Mental Health Award
  • Ofsted - Outstanding Provider
  • International School Award