Computer Science
Computer Science is the study of computer systems, a subject at the forefront of technology. Pupils learn software and software systems that includes their theory, design, development and application.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)
Pupils start Year 7 with an E-Safety project, which includes health & safety issues with computers. Pupils then learn to write algorithms and create flowcharts using Flowol. Programming concepts are introduced and skills are developed using Scratch & Python. Game development using programs such as Fusion is popular among Key Stage 3 students. Data structures, data representation and study of types of computer systems form an integral part of the subject. Programming club run by Digital Leaders highlights their strengths of programming at higher levels.
GCSE (Years 10 & 11)
Examination Board: OCR
Paper 1: Computer Systems. 50% GCSE. This unit covers system architecture, memory, storage, networking, system security and system software, as well as ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns and data representation.
Paper 2: Computational thinking, algorithms and programming. 50% GCSE. This unit covers algorithms, programming techniques, producing robust programs, computational logic, translators and facilities of languages.
"Computers themselves, and software yet to be developed, will revolutionize the way we learn." - STEVE JOBS
