Computer Science

Back

This curriculum has been designed and created to develop skills which promote problem solving and critical thinking through a greater emphasis on computational thinking.  It will provide a context to learners to enable them to make links to real world issues and explore how these might be solved through the study and application of computer science. 

Computer Science, including ICT is compulsory for all students in Years 7, 8 and 9. Students are currently able to select GCSE Computer Science in Key Stage 4. Selecting Computer Science will provide students with a real, in-depth understanding of how computer technology works and enable them to greatly extend the programming skills acquired in Key Stage 3.

 

Year 7

Year 8Year 9Year 10Year 11

 

Key Stage 4 

GCSE Computer Science

Computer Science is a very practical subject – students will be able to use the knowledge and skills they learn in the classroom on real-world problems. It’s also a highly creative subject that calls on learners to be inventive.

The course at a glance:

  • Computer Systems - Component 1
  • Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming - Component 2
  • Practical Programming
  • Qualification Focus

What will a student gain from this course?

  • Valuable thinking and programming skills that are extremely attractive in the modern workplace.
  • A deep understanding of problem solving and experience in creating logical and efficient solutions.
  • Ability to write down solutions to problems for other people to understand.
  • A good grounding in mainstream computing theory and understanding.

How many exams are there?

There are two exam papers at the end of the syllabus, one focusing on computer systems and one with a focus on computational thinking, algorithms and programming. Each paper lasts 1.5 hours and is worth 50% of the total GCSE.  Students will develop coding skills throughout the course. This allows them to gain practical experience of using the skills developed throughout the specification. Students will engage in an authentic programming experience which supports their learning and exam preparation.

 

What could you do next?

GCSE Computer Science is effective preparation for a range of qualifications including:

·         AS Level Computer Science.

·         A Level Computer Science.

·         Cambridge Technicals – IT Level 3 or Digital Media Level 3 (these are OCR vocational qualifications that offer an alternative to A levels for students aged 16+).

·         It also provides a good grounding for other subject areas that require problem solving and analytical skills.

 

Homework 

Homework is set through Classcharts

Books, Equipment, Materials and Resources Recommended/Needed 

Computer access

Opportunities for Study beyond Key Stage 4 

The purpose of these qualifications is to recognise the development of IT Skills. They support progression to higher level qualifications in digital technologies. Preparing learners for technological change when most information is freely available from the internet, is key to 21st Century learning.

Career Opportunities Supported by this Subject 

IT User, Computing, Design Engineer Construct, Enterprise, Business Management, Food Safety, Additive Manufacture

Promotes lifelong learning

 

The Design Technology, Art & Computer Science Curriculum Lead is Mrs Gaynor Evans.