Computer Science & ICT

ICT is changing the lives of everyone. Through teaching ICT and Computer Science we equip children to participate in a rapidly-changing world where work and leisure activities are increasingly transformed by technology. We enable them to find, explore, analyse, exchange and present information. We also focus on developing the skills necessary for children to be able to use information in a discriminating and effective way.

The aims of Computing are to enable children:

• To develop valuable thinking and programming skills that are extremely attractive in the modern workplace.
• To develop a deep understanding of computational thinking and how to apply it through a chosen programming language

Pupils will also learn:

• to develop ICT capability in finding, selecting and using information;
• to use ICT for effective and appropriate communication;
• to apply hardware and software to creative and appropriate uses of information;
• to apply their ICT skills and knowledge to their learning in other areas;
• to use their ICT skills to develop their language and communication skills;
• to explore their attitudes towards ICT/Computing and its value to them and society in general. For example, to learn about issues of security, confidentiality and accuracy

Staffing

Head of Department – Mrs L. Ali

IT & Computer Science Teachers –Miss S Seville, Mr H Tarafdar, Mrs F Jamila and Miss S Naseem

Key stage 4 (Year 9, 10 and 11)

Year 9 IT – development of key skills that prove your aptitude in digital information technology, such as project planning, designing and creating user interfaces, creating dashboards to present and interpret data.

Pupils will broaden experience and skills participation in different type of performance activities with the opportunity to practically apply their knowledge and skills, through project work such as developing ideas and performing for specific audiences.

Year 10 & 11

Pearson BTEC Level 1/Level 2 Tech Award in Digital Information Technology- In this qualification, which is 120 GLH, students will develop important technical skills in data interpretation, data presentation and data protection. They will cover aspects of user interface (UI) design and development, and learn how to develop a project plan for their own UI designs.

KS5 BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Information Technology

Learners will study three mandatory units:

• Unit 1: Information Technology Systems (synoptic)
• Unit 2: Creating Systems to Manage Information
• Unit 3: Using Social Media in Business.

This qualification includes a choice of optional units, including:

• Unit 5: Data Modelling
• Unit 6: Website Development.

• The department sets regular homework which is built into the Schemes of Work. This is normally evaluation or research based, but could be practical, particularly for Key Stage 4 and 5

Further reading:

• An Introduction to Information Systems by Mr David Whiteley
• Computer and Information Security Handbook by John Vacca
• Information and Communication Technology in Organizations: Adoption, Implementation, Use and Effects Paperback – 18 Mar 2005 by Jan A. G. M. Van Dijk
• DoddleLearn
• Codecademy
• Hour of Code

Use of Computers

Computers are made available for pupil use at lunchtimes and after school. The aim is to strike a balance between work and entertainment, but mainly to provide an opportunity to complete homework or further study, for pupils who have restricted computer or internet access outside school.

Lunchtime: Available every day, 1.20 – 2.00 p.m.

• For work only
• No Games
• No Internet Surfing
• Coursework and Homework Only
• No Pass Necessary
• First Come First Served Basis
• Printing is only allowed with permission of a teacher.

Pupils are expected to print work within the relevant department, where facilities are available.

A lunchtime club for Coding aimed at all Key stages is run Mondays by Mrs Ali.

We are also committed to promoting our school values of ‘Collaboration, Aspiration, Respect, Equality and Responsibility’ to pupils at every opportunity.  We take every opportunity to ensure that our school’s Safeguarding Policy is adhered to in full at all times.