Computing and Business

Key Stage 3

In the Computing and Business department we are constantly evaluating and improving the curriculum throughout Key Stage 3 to ensure that the breadth of knowledge and experiences that are on offer meet the national curriculum needs. The aim of the computing curriculum is to provide pupils with an exciting and rigorous curriculum that addresses the challenges and opportunities offered by the technologically rich world in which we live. Pupils will gain secure knowledge and skills which will encourage them to use technology to create art, solve problems and develop computational thinking skills. Pupils will understand how computers work, how to be safe digital citizens and design and program robust solutions. We will incorporate ideas that help build the skills for successful enterprises that are transferable. With these skills pupils will then be able to relate their understanding of computing to real world scenarios and develop their understanding of key skills that are required in a modern working environment. Our vision follows the spiral curriculum model that is designed to allow students to progress at their own pace but build up knowledge and understanding every time we revisit a topic. This allows for a flowing process from Year 7 and through the GCSE content by the end of Year 11.

Key Stage 4

We offer 3 option subjects at KS4; OCR GCSE in Computer Science, Edexcel Level 2 BTEC in Digital Information Technology and Edexcel Level 2 BTEC in Enterprise.

OCR GCSE in Computer science will build on the knowledge, understanding and skills established through the Computer Science elements of the Key Stage 3 programme of study. The content has been designed not only to allow for a solid basis of understanding but to engage learners and get them thinking about real world application. The specification encourages learners to be inspired, and challenged through completing a coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study. The specification will help learners to gain an insight into related sectors. It will prepare learners to make informed decisions about further learning opportunities and career choices.

Edexcel Level 2 BTEC in Digital Information Technology is a course designed to create confident users of ICT applications.  Students will learn how to use a number of software packages and apply these into a business context. This course gives students the foundations into how their data is harvested and used for a number of business purposes.  Equivalent to one GCSE, this qualification will help students develop the knowledge and skills needed to go on to further education in IT or computing.

Edexcel Level 2 BTEC in Enterprise is a course for pupils who wish to acquire knowledge and skills through vocational contexts. All businesses need enterprising employees to drive their organisations forward, to have ideas and initiatives to instigate growth, and to ensure that businesses survive in this fast-changing world. Enterprise skills provide a fantastic progression pathway into several roles in an organisation and are transferable into all businesses. Pupils will gain an insight into the world of enterprise by studying the knowledge, behaviours and skills related to researching, planning, pitching and reviewing an enterprise idea. The qualification enables learners to develop their technical skills, such as market research skills, planning, promotional and financial skills using realistic work scenarios, and personal skills, (such as monitoring own performance, time management and problem solving) through a practical and skills-based approach to learning and assessment.