“Everyone should learn how to code, it teaches you how to think” Steve Jobs
Computer Science seeks to understand and explore the world around us, both natural and artificial. It deals with the application of computer systems to solve real-world problems, including issues such as the identification of business needs, hardware and software, and the evaluation of usability. It is the productive, creative and explorative use of technology.
Key Stage 3
Students of Computer Science in Key Stage 3 develop the foundational understanding of computational thinking, how to problem solve using computational skills such as algorithms and programming, using data and systems. Students develop their knowledge and application of programming languages, understanding computer structures and ways in which the world of systems and data works.
Students also study how to create and refine digital artifacts – anything that can be created on or by a computer – and will work towards mastery in this skill.
Key Stage 3 also strengthens students knowledge and understanding of digital literacy. In today’s digital age, students need to be effective users of technology and understand the mechanics and applications of such technology and e-safety.
Key Stage 4
Year 10 is the start of the 2 year GCSE course. Our curriculum is specifically tailored to ensure our students achieve their full potential in the specification set by OCR. Click here to see the exam board’s website.
British Values, SMSC and Cultural Capital
We promote mutual respect and tolerance, for example, considering how our behaviour is applicable to the online world as well as in society. Learners work independently and within teams building resilience and self-esteem.
Students appreciate the need to play a responsible, active role in the digital world and not be passive consumers of an opaque and mysterious technology. They are supported in using knowledge to solve problems when things go wrong and to form their views on issues such as software patents, identity theft, genetic engineering and the use of electronic voting systems for elections.
As a quintessential STEM discipline, sharing attributes with engineering, mathematics, science, and technology, this area involves the application of logic and reasoning as well as scientific approaches to measurement and experiment. It requires understanding, appreciation, and application of a wide range of technologies, all of which take centre stage in the modern century.