Curriculum Intent

We study Computer Science to help us think in a more logical way and become better at making decisions and solve problems. We learn about how the different parts of a computer work together and why they work like that. In addition, we develop skills in programming systems and start to understand how computers communicate via networks. We then look at how important Technology is today and the impact and issues that can arise from using computer systems and how to improve them. 

 Creative iMedia is another option that is taught by the ICT and Computer Science department in school. This qualification looks at the application of creative media skills through their practical use. It provides students with the essential knowledge, transferable skills and tools to improve their learning in other subjects with the aims of enhancing their employability when they leave education, contributing to their personal development and future economic well-being. The qualifications will encourage independence, creativity, and awareness of the digital media sector. 

---

Key Stage 3:

• 3 x 60-minute lessons per fortnight. 
• Classes are mixed ability. 
• Work is complete online through Microsoft Teams and students can access this work using any device with internet access.  
• Assessments are once per half term and are based on the learning the students have done throughout that half term. 
• Progress is monitored and tracked by the head of department and a senior leader. 
• Homework is set every term via worksheets / online through MS Teams or online through iDEA and completion and submission is monitored on Class Charts 
• Awards are given every half term in the form of certificates for students who have shown high levels of excellence, perseverance, and success.  

 

---

Key Stage 4:

Computer Science  

• 5 x 60-minute lessons per fortnight. 
• Classes are mixed ability. 
• The examination specification  OCR (https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/gcse/computer-science-j277-from-2020/) and the course is worth 1 GCSE and externally assessed by 2 exams (50% each) there is a programming element to the course, but this is unassessed.  
• Work is complete in exercise books and on Microsoft Teams.  
• Internal assessments are once per unit of work delivered and there are Interim assessment to recap and review as an ongoing process.  
• Progress is monitored and tracked by the head of department and a senior leader 
• Homework is set through MS Teams or Seneca Learning, and completion and submission is monitored on Class Charts 
• Awards are given every half term in the form of certificates for students who have shown high levels of excellence, perseverance, and success.

Creative iMedia  

• 5 x 60-minute lessons per fortnight. 
• Classes are mixed ability. 
• The examination specification OCR National (https://ocr.org.uk/qualifications/cambridge-nationals/creative-imedia-level-1-2-j834/) and the course is worth 1 GCSE and externally assessed by and exam (30%) and 2 pieces of coursework (40% each) 
• Work is complete in exercise books and on Microsoft Teams.  
• Internal assessments are once per unit of work delivered and there are Interim assessment to recap and review as an ongoing process.  
• Coursework is assessed upon completion but students are provided with the marking criteria and guidance so they can check their own progress.  
• Progress is monitored and tracked by the head of department and a senior leader 
• Homework is set through MS Teams or on worksheets and completion and submission is monitored on Class Charts 
• Awards are given every half term in the form of certificates for students who have shown high levels of excellence, perseverance, and success. 

---

Extended Curriculum

• Students have an account for iDEA where they can complete a series of badges to be awarded certification in the Digital Enterprise Award.  
• Students are introduced to a speed typing course and are asked to continue to use this to help improve their typing skills 
• Seneca Learning can be used to help revise course content 
• Teach-ict is available with a username and password provided by the class teacher 
• Computerscienceuk is another web-based resource where students can revise course content 

 

---

Year 7 Curriculum Content ICT & Computer Science

Year 8 Curriculum Content ICT & Computer Science

Year 9 Curriculum Content ICT & Computer Science

Year 10 Curriculum Content Computer Science

Year 11 Curriculum Content Computer Science

Year 10 Curriculum Content Creative IMedia

Year 11 Curriculum Content Creative IMedia