ICT & Computing
KS 3
About the course
The curriculum at Key Stage 3 aims to develop students’ proficiency with the use of ICT. An understanding of appropriate software selection, and the skills needed to complete tasks is a major focus.
What they will learn
Students will study a variety of topics, covering core ICT and Computing units in preparation for GCSE ICT. Year 7, 8, 9 are taught:
How it will be assessed
Each unit is assessed continuously through targeted questioning and the assessment of the end products that students will be produce.
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KS 4
GCSE Computer Science (OCR)
About the Course
It’s engaging and fun. This course gives students the opportunity to discover how computer technology works and to take a look at what goes on ‘behind the scenes’. Through the introduction of programming, it helps them expand their problem-solving skills. For many, it will be a fun and interesting way to develop these transferable skills, which can be applied to further learning and everyday life.
What they will Learn
How it will be assessed
Pupils sit two theory exams and complete a controlled assessment project.
Certificate in Digital Applications (Pearson Edexcel)
About the course
An applied course that covers two years where students will get the skills to allow them to develop web products, digital artwork and images.
What they will learn
In ICT this year, you will learn a variety of skills to prepare you for an increasingly digital and online world. The skills that will be taught include:
How it will be assessed
Pupils sit a practical computer-based exam and complete a controlled assessment project.
National Certificate in Creative iMedia (OCR)
About the course
Cambridge Nationals are vocationally related qualifications that take an engaging, practical and inspiring approach to learning and assessment. They’re industry relevant, geared to key sector requirements and very popular with schools and colleges because they suit such a broad range of pupils that are interested in digital and creative IT.
The Cambridge Nationals in Creative iMedia have been founded upon the recommendations of the Wolf Report and created in partnership with teachers, students, education specialists and industry leading employers. This collaborative approach has resulted in a qualification that offers students a solid foundation for their future studies and career.
What they will learn
Lessons will be a combination of theory for the written exam and practical skills required for the coursework.
How it will be assessed
Exam (25%)
Planning and pre-production written exam (1Hour 15 mins)
Coursework (75%)
Digital graphics controlled assessment unit and two optional units including web design, digital animation, comic book design and game design.
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KS 5
A Level Computing (OCR)
About the Course
A level Computer Science is a qualification that is relevant to the modern and changing world of computing. It is a two year course that has exams and coursework to be completed at the end of year 13.
What they will learn
Computer science:
How they will be assessed
All assessment takes place at the end of year 13. There are 3 assessments as follows
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BTEC L3 IT (Edexcel)
- Subsidiary Diploma (1 A level equivalent)
- Diploma (2 A Level Equivalent)
About the course
The BTEC Level 3 in IT aims to ensure students are occupationally ready to take up employment in the IT at the appropriate level. This can follow either directly after achieving the qualification, or via the stepping stone of Higher Education (HE) in university or college.
What they will learn
By studying a BTEC National, learners develop knowledge, understanding and skills required by the sector, including essential employability skills, and apply them in real work contexts. Learners can operate at a standard that can reasonably be expected of an 18 year old in full-time education. Learners study topics that may include: Computer Systems, Database Design, Computer Animation, Digital Graphics, Spreadsheet Modelling, Computer Game Design, Installing and Upgrading Software, Technical Support and Troubleshooting.
How will it be assessed?
Learners are assessed internally through coursework based units that are equally weighted. There are 6 units for the Subsidiary Diploma and 12 units for the Diploma, both over two years. Learners are required to evidence their knowledge, understanding and skills through a variety of ways including written reports, posters, presentations and observation. This is recognised by universities and allows learners to progress to further education as required.
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Level 3 – Cambridge Technical Foundation Diploma in IT
Click the above image for more information
About the course:
The Cambridge Technical qualifications in both IT and Digital Media aim to ensure students are occupationally ready to take up employment in the IT and digital media fields at the appropriate level. Digital media units will give learners an understanding of how different media institutions operate to create products that appeal to specific target audiences. They’ll gain knowledge and understanding of the pre-production, planning and production processes and go on to create a media product. Through this learners will also develop transferable skills such as planning, communication, adaptability and leadership. IT units follow an application developer pathway. They will enhance a learner’s knowledge, skills and understanding with respect to the development of specifications and the designing, building, testing and implementation of applications. Learners will leave with a good understanding of the issues surrounding cyber security and will be able to incorporate solutions into their designs to minimise risk. Typical job roles within this pathway include; Web Application Developer, Software Engineer, Mobile Application Developer, Application Developer or Software Analyst.
It could also provide a route to a higher education media-related programme such as Digital Media, Media Production, Media and Communications, Journalism and Media, Digital Marketing.
What will they learn?
By studying this qualification, learners will develop knowledge, understanding and skills required by the IT and Digital Media sector. They will be able to operate at a standard that can be expected of an 18year in full-time education. Learners will study an array of different units including:
Across both course you will complete projects that include: Comic book creation and design, Social media and Digital Marketing, Game design and development, Web development, Cyber Security, Fundamentals of IT, Pre production and planning of Media Products.
How will it be assessed?
Learners will be both internally and externally assessed. Internal assessment will take place through coursework based units. Across both IT and Digital Media, learners will complete 12 coursework units over the two years. In addition to this, learners will need to complete 5 externally assessed exams. Learners are required to evidence their knowledge, understanding and skills through a variety of ways including written reports, posters, presentations and observation. This is recognised by universities and allows learners to progress to further education as required.
Head of Department:
Mr Stevens
