Welcome to the Computer Science Department
     

• Mr Neil Brand - Curriculum Leader
• Mr Chris Legg - Teacher and Assistant Head Teacher
• Mr Mr Patrick Garlick  - Teacher

 

What is Computer Science and why is it important?

Computer Science is the study of computers, how they are made, controlled, and used in the modern world. Through the study of Computer Science students learn essential life skills in how to innovate, solve problems, and find efficiencies in daily tasks. All students should understand how technology is used to collaborate, benefit society and to be responsible digital citizens.

What do students learn in Computer Science?

Write robust programs using at least two text programming languages.	Understand how hardware and software interact.
Use computational thinking to solve problems.	Using information technology and software to complete tasks (including cloud based).
Understand how computers store and process data.	Digital literacy and understanding how Computer Science influences/supports lives.

Challenge and support in Computer Science

 

Within the department, we take the opportunity to provide learning opportunities that are adapted to individual learners. Using online platforms and curriculum time with skilled staff ensures students are able to understand the core concepts, whilst being introduced to complex programming concepts and a deeper knowledge of how computer systems are developed.

How is Computer Science assessed?     

• In KS3 students are assessed after each unit of work. The assessment consists of a portfolio of work and multiple-choice online assessments.
• Assessments in KS4 will be a range of extended writing, multiple-choice and exam questions from the bank of questions supplied from OCR.
• Seneca is a comprehensive and powerful learning environment that will empower students to focus on their learning needs and support review and addressing knowledge gap.

Learning beyond the classroom

Home learning in Computer Science is well-placed to support the content presented within the classroom. It is also utilised to ensure that previously learnt knowledge is not forgotten as we progress through Years 9 – 11.

We have successfully implemented Seneca, which provides a comprehensive e-platform aligned with the course content. Students can see first-hand which areas they have embedded knowledge; it also provides targeted content that can support weak areas of the course. Home learning will be set on a weekly basis in line with the school policy.

Where can Computer Science lead?

Computer Science is available in a wide range of course beyond KS3 and GCSE. Local colleges and learning providers will offer A-Levels, T-Levels and apprenticeship opportunities in the local community.

Learning can also progress into higher levels of study via degree courses, sponsored degrees through employment routes and Apprenticeship degrees which are to be developed year-on-year.