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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: Miss L. Latif
2nd in Department: Miss S Seville
3rd in Department: Mrs F Jamila
Mr M Zaheer(Assistant Headteacher)
Mr A Khan
Mr Jubier
Key Stage 3
| Year Group | ½ Autumn | ½ Autumn | ½ Spring | ½ Spring | ½ Summer | ½ Summer |
| Year 7 | Unit 1 File Management, Email,E-Safety | Unit 2 MS Office |
Unit 3- Introduction to Python
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Unit 4- Computer Systems and Binary Control
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Unit 5- AI and Machine Learning
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Unit 6- Games programming in Scratch |
| Year 8 | Unit 1- Networks | Unit 2- Cybersecurity |
Unit 3 Python Next Steps
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Unit 4- HTML and website development |
Unit 5
MIT App Development |
Unit 6- Graphics and animation |
| Year 9 | Unit 1 Business Challenge |
Unit 2 Database Development |
Unit 3 Spreadsheets | Unit 4 Python | Unit 5 User Interface(Planning) | Unit 6 Exploring User Interface (Development) |
Key stage 4
BTEC Tech Awards Digital Information Technology (2022)
In this qualification students will develop sector-specific knowledge and skills in a practical learning environment including:
development of key skills that prove their aptitude in digital information technology
processes that underpin effective ways of working, such as project planning, the iterative design process and cyber security.
knowledge that underpins effective ways of skills, processes and attitudes in the sector, such as how different user interfaces meet user needs.
Assessment
Assessment is split in the following ways:
Component 1 – Exploring User Interface Design Principles and Project Planning Techniques
Component 2 – Collecting, Presenting and Interpreting Data
Component 3 – Effective Digital Working Practices
OCR GCSE (9–1) in Computer Science
Key Stage 5
Students will have the option to choose from Single or Double ICT and A Level Computer Science
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Information Technology
This qualification is designed for students who are interested in an introduction to the study of creating IT systems to manage and share information.
This qualification is equivalent to one A level.
Students will study four units, three of which are mandatory.
Unit 1: Information Technology Systems (synoptic)
Unit 2: Creating Systems to Manage Information
Unit 3: Using Social Media in Business.
Unit 5: Data Modelling
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Information in Information Technology
This qualification is designed to be studied over two years and carries UCAS tariff points. It meets entry requirements in its own right for some courses in IT or related study such as an HNC or HND in Computing, Engineering or Business Management. For progression to a degree course, learners should normally study this qualification alongside other qualifications, such as an A Level or BTEC Extended Certificate in a different or complementary subject area.
This qualification is equivalent to two A levels.
Students will study eight units, six of which are mandatory.
Unit 1: Information Technology Systems (synoptic)
Unit 2: Creating Systems to Manage Information
Unit 3: Using Social Media in Business.
Unit 4: Programming
Unit 5: Data Modelling
Unit 8: Computer Games Development
Unit 9: IT Project Management
Unit 11: Cyber Security and Incident Management
OCR A Level Computer Science
Computer Science is a practical subject where students can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real-world systems. It’s an intensely creative subject that combines invention and excitement, and can look at the natural world through a digital prism.
The aims of this qualification are to enable learners to develop:
• An understanding and ability to apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including: abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation
• The ability to analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems, including writing programs to do so
• The capacity to think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically
• The capacity to see relationships between different aspects of computer science
• Mathematical skills
Homework
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
Additional reading, websites, activities
KS4
Introduction to Algorithms by Cormen, Leiserson, Rivest
Computer Networks by Andy Tanenbaum
Modern Operating Systems by Andy Tanenbaum
Operating Systems: Internals and Design Principles by William Stallings
KS5
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
Useful Websites
Extra-curricular activities
Throughout the academic year, revision classes are scheduled for all examination year groups. Parents and carers will be notified of these activities and asked permission for pupils to attend, as with off site visits.
Career options in IT
There are a variety of routes into careers in IT where some require a degree or further study after post-16.
Software Developer
Systems Analyst
IT Support
Project Manager
Web designer
Esports
Holte school takes part in a national competitive video gaming competition called British Esports Student Champs. The British Esports Student Champs is a series of exciting competitive video gaming competitions for students aged 12+ in schools and colleges across the UK. Pupils have the opportunity to try out for the eSports teams at the beginning of the school year.
Video Gaming Club
Pupils have the opportunity to play video games at lunch time on a variety of different platforms such as the Nintendo Switch and the Xbox.