Computer Science

Computer science empowers scholars with the ability to control and manipulate computers. Every lesson offers scholars the opportunity to explore the digital world, to understand how computers work and why they work the way they do. The aim of the curriculum is to spark a lasting passion in the subject of computer science and provide a platform from which scholars can be and create anything they want in the future. The curriculum ensures all scholars have the skills needed for a successful future using digital media where they can safely find, evaluate, create and communicate information. Computer science augments these skills with problem solving and programming that empowers scholars with the ability and freedom to create anything. The subject promotes problem solving through computational thinking: scholars use abstraction, decomposition, algorithmic thinking and pattern recognition to design creative solutions. Scholars can use the programming skills they learn here as steppingstones to a successful future in the dynamic, growing and exciting world of tech.

Year 10-11 Overview

Key Stage 3

At Key Stage 3, our scholars engage in a dynamic knowledge based spiral Computer Science curriculum designed to foster continuous learning and deepen their understanding of technology. In Year 7, they begin with Computer Basics, Computational Thinking, Computer Systems, and explore the Impact of Technology, Networks, Programming, and Physical Computing. They will understand a range of ways to use technology safely, respectfully, responsibly and securely, including protecting their online identity and privacy; recognise inappropriate content, contact and conduct and know how to report concerns.

Moving into Year 8, scholars delve into the Binary number system, further explore Computer Systems, develop skills in HTML for the web, study Algorithms, and transition to text-based programming in Python. Scholars have covered computer hardware in Y7 and now are looking at binary, the language of the hardware. They learn operations such as binary addition. Scholars will study ‘internet services’ such as websites and develop skills in HTML to create their own. 

Year 9 builds on the foundational knowledge from Year 7 and 8, with advanced topics such as Advanced Data Representation with sound and images, Network and Security, Advanced Algorithms and Programming with different data types, and Systems Architecture. By the end of year 9 scholars will have secure knowledge and understanding of all 3 aspects of Computing: Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy. 

All scholars participate in the UK Bebras Challenge, enhancing their computational thinking skills. High achievers may qualify for The Oxford University Computing Challenge. Additionally, they access iDEA, an award-winning program promoting digital, enterprise, and employability skills, earning badges and recognition with Bronze, Silver and Gold certificates.

Homework assignments are set on Quizlet, providing an interactive platform for reinforcing learning.

Computing Curriculum

Key Stage 4

As we embark on Key Stage 4, our scholars will follow the OCR GCSE J277 Computer Science specification. Through an interleaving approach, they will connect various elements of the specification, enhancing their understanding and building a robust knowledge base. The curriculum map/sequence and knowledge organisers guide scholars through the KS4 journey.

To support their progress, scholars will receive essential materials, including CGP Revision Guide, Python Programming Book, Exam Practice Booklet and Smart Revise License. The Smart Revise platform, utilised weekly, aids in revision and knowledge retrieval, requiring an average of 30 minutes per week outside assigned homework.

Regular assessments, both formative and summative, track their progress. The OCR GCSE Computer Science course comprises two 80-mark exams, collectively contributing 50% to the overall GCSE mark.

J277/01 Computer Systems explores Systems Architecture, Memory and Storage, Computer Networks, Security, Systems Software, and the Ethical, Legal, Cultural, and Environmental Impacts of Digital Technology.

J277/02 Computational Thinking, Algorithms, and Programming covers Algorithms, Programming Fundamentals, Producing Robust Programs, Boolean logic, Programming Languages, and Integrated Development Environments.

Our chosen Exam Board is OCR, and the detailed specification can be found GCSE – Computer Science (9-1) – J277 (from 2020) – OCR