ICT and Computer Science
“Everybody should learn to program a computer, because it teaches you how to think.”
Steve Jobs
learning journey computer science 2023 v2.pdf
Key Stage 3 (Years 7, 8 and 9)
The Key Stage 3 curriculum provides challenges and new experiences in computing and digital literacy. Our curriculum explores binary and how data is represented in binary form, algorithm design and the use of algorithms in control systems, programming fundamentals and the high-level programming language Python, as well as E-Safety to ensure students know how stay safe online and where to seek help and support.
Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11)
There are two different pathways available to KS4 learners; the OCR Computer Science GCSE and the OCR Cambridge National in IT. The Computer Science GCSE is assessed through two examinations and the CNat in IT is assessed through an examination and two NEA projects. An overview of both of the courses is given below.
OCR Computer Science GCSE
This Computer Science GCSE consists of two different units which gives students an excellent opportunity to investigate how computers work and how they are used, and to develop computer programming and problem-solving skills.
Component 1: Computer Systems - This is an exam based unit covering the physical elements of computer science and the associated theory.
Component 2: Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming - This is an exam based unit focused on the core theory of computer science and the application of computer science principles.
OCR Cambridge National in IT
The Cambridge National in IT consists of three different units which will inspire and equip students with the confidence to use skills that are relevant to the IT sector and more widely. It covers the use of IT in the digital world, Internet of Everything, data manipulation, human-computer interface (HCI) and augmented reality.
R050: IT in the digital world - This is a 1 hour 30 minutes written examination paper worth 40% of the final grade.
R060: Data manipulation using spreadsheets - This is a Non-exam assessment (NEA) that is set by the exam board and is worth 30% of the final grade.
R070: Using augmented reality to present information - This is a Non-exam assessment (NEA) that is set by the exam board and is worth 30% of the final grade.
Success and Achievements:
Our results continue to be very good at KS4 and compare favourably nationally. In August 2019, 29% of our GCSE students achieved a grade between 9-7 and 76% achieved a grade 5 or higher. In CNats, our students achieved a grade between L2D* - L2M and 64% of achieved a grade between L2D* - L2P.