Computing

Introduction

Our Computing curriculum empowers students to become confident, creative, and responsible digital citizens. 

So much of modern life depends on digital technology to solve problems, enhance design and support communications. Our curriculum at KPHS enables students to develop ways of using computing to solve problems, analyse data and design solutions. We teach our students at KPHS that using technology safely is of paramount importance and we aim for them to understand the benefits and costs in this ever-evolving world. Understanding computing helps students to not only understand the modern world, but to change it too through computational thinking and creativity. 

Across KS3, learners develop a broad foundation in digital literacy, programming, data representation, and the social impacts of technology. This journey prepares them to progress into KS4, where they can choose to study GCSE Computer Science, deepening their expertise in algorithms, programming, and networking. By the end of KS3, students are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make informed choices about their future.

Those who continue into KS4 will be prepared not only to succeed in GCSE Computer Science but also to thrive in a rapidly evolving technological society, with the creativity, resilience, and critical thinking skills essential for life beyond school.  

How Computing Supports Our School Values

We Co-operate
Collaboration is at the heart of our curriculum. Students work together to solve problems, share ideas, and design and evaluate ideas and systems. They support one another in projects ranging from Scratch animations to Python programs. This teamwork reflects the collaborative nature of the computing industry.  

We Pioneer
Students are encouraged to innovate and explore. Whether designing creative solutions in Blender, experimenting with sorting algorithms, or tackling real-world challenges in GCSE Computer Science, students are inspired to push boundaries and become digital creators.  

We Belong
Our curriculum is inclusive and accessible to all. Every student is valued, and we celebrate diversity in the digital world. From learning about online safety and relationships to exploring the history of computing, students see themselves as part of a global community of digital citizens. We challenge stereotypes and we shape our projects so that localised issues and problems to solve are part of our curriculum offer. We work hard to teach our KPHS students that their ideas matter and that they are all valued in our classrooms. 

Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG) in Computing

Studying Computing develops analytical skills, logical problem-solving, algorithmic thinking, and an understanding of real-world digital technologies. Students gain insight into software development, cybersecurity, and career pathways within the tech sector.

Career Areas Linked to Computing:

• Software Engineering & Application Development – applying programming languages, code optimization, and algorithmic thinking to design, test, and build software, mobile apps, and operating systems.
• Cybersecurity, Networking & Forensics – using system architecture knowledge, threat analysis, and ethical hacking to secure data networks, prevent cyber attacks, and investigate digital breaches.
• Data Science, AI & Machine Learning – employing computational logic, data analysis, and mathematical modeling to train artificial intelligence, automate tasks, and extract insights from large datasets.
• Web Development, UI/UX & Cloud Computing – utilizing coding precision, database management, and user-centered design to build responsive websites, manage cloud infrastructure, and optimize digital platforms.
• Game Development, Robotics & Tech Innovation – using physics simulations, hardware-software integration, and creative problem-solving to program interactive video games, design robotic systems, and develop smart technologies.

Computing can lead to careers in the following Greater Manchester growth sectors:

www.gmacs.co.uk/engineering-and-manufacturing

www.gmacs.co.uk/beeline/digital-and-technology

www.gmacs.co.uk/beeline/health-and-social-care

www.gmacs.co.uk/beeline/creative-culture-and-sport

www.gmacs.co.uk/beeline/construction-and-the-green-economy

www.gmacs.co.uk/beeline/financial-business-and-professional-services

For more information about careers linked to Computing, visit:

Computing - icould

After GCSE you can study Computing at Rochdale Sixth Form College, Oldham Sixth Form College, Bury College and related courses at Hopwood Hall College, Oldham College and Manchester College 

For further information about the Computing curriculum, please contact: info@kingswaypark.org