Computing & ICT

What Is Special About This Subject?

Computer Science & ICT, the 4th Industrial Revolution, inspires curiosity in students to use computational thinking and creativity to understand the world through using digital technologies. It  empowers and educates them by providing the tools they need to thrive in an ever-changing digital world.

What Is The Learning Journey Through This Subject?

Key Stage 3 - Computing

WHAT WILL I LEARN IN THIS SUBJECT?

We provide students with a set of skills that will be of direct relevance to Year 10 Options, College/Sixth Form courses and employment.  The programme provides students with an understanding of why hardware and software tools are used and how to select the most appropriate methods.  Students will gain an understanding of the protocols and conventions involved in the design, creation and testing of solutions thereby increasing their intellectual range.  Computer Science elements, including Programming are introduced from Year 7.

WHAT SKILLS AND THEMES ARE COVERED?

The following areas are covered during the Key Stage through ACE and other subjects:

• Finding Information
• Using data and information sources
• Searching and selecting
• Organising and investigating
• Strand 2 – Developing ideas
  • Analysing and automating processes
  • Models and modelling
  • Sequencing and instruction
• Strand 3 – Communicating Information
  • Fitness for purpose
  • Refining and presenting information
  • Communications
• Strand 4 –Evaluating
  • Evaluating

HOW IS IT ASSESSED?

Ability level is assessed using the guidance and protocols in place for the NTC Standards.  As this changes NTC will adapt the assessment criteria as appropriate.

Assessment is applied throughout projects.  Guidance is provided on how well the evidence has been presented and what could be done to improve further.  Specific computing and ICT assessment is based on skill, originality and independence shown.

EXTRA CURRICULA  activities

A range of curriculum focused trips are provided: Bletchley Park, National Computing Museum, Focused university days, Science Museum Technician experience

LEARNING OUTSIDE THE CURRICULUM

Most programming languages are free to use and are easily downloaded from the internet. Many, such as Python and Arduino provide a free web-based portal.

BBC BiteSize provide an excellent home use range of resources

WHERE DOES THIS TAKE ME?

Key Stage 4 — GCSE Computing

Key Stage 5 — BTEC and A Level standard course introducing elements of Computer Science

University — Computer Studies, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Hardware Engineering