choosing your subjects
Our aim within the Computer Science curriculum is to equip students with the skills to become adept problem solvers and proficient users of modern computer systems, enabling them to navigate the complexities of our ever-evolving digital world. At Key Stage 4, the curriculum is designed to foster capabilities, practical skills, and in-depth knowledge in both computer science and digital information technologies. We strive to inspire and excite students, helping them to recognise the essential role these subjects play in contemporary society, and how they open doors to a wide range of careers that value innovation and critical thinking.
Computer Science is a subject closely linked to Mathematics, Science, and Design and Technology. Through these connections, we encourage students to draw upon and relate the concepts they are learning, deepening their understanding of the modern world. Nurturing creativity forms a central part of our approach; we want students to develop the confidence and conviction that they have the potential to make a positive difference in society.
In addition, our curriculum ensures that pupils achieve digital literacy. They are taught to use information and communication technology effectively, to express themselves, and to develop their ideas at a level suitable for future employment and as active, informed participants in a digital age.
National Curriculum for Computing
The National Curriculum for Computing establishes the following aims for all pupils:
- To understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms, and data representation.
- To analyse problems in computational terms, supported by repeated practical experience in writing computer programs to solve such problems.
- To evaluate and apply information technology, including unfamiliar or emerging technologies, in an analytical manner to solve problems.
- To become responsible, competent, confident, and creative users of information and communication technology.
Course details
Students will follow the Computer Science (9-1) – J277 course, awarded by OCR, QN 601/8355/X.
GCSE Computer Science Curriculum
| Term | Topics |
|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Course Systems Architecture Memory and Storage (Part 1) |
| 2 | 1.2 Memory and Storage (Part 1) 1.2 Memory and Storage (Part 2) |
| 3 | 1.3 Computer Networks, Connections and Protocols |
| 4 | 1.3 Computer Networks, Connections and Protocols 1.4 Network Security |
| 5 | 1.4 Computer Networks, Connections and Protocols 1.5 System Software |
| 6 | 1.6 Ethical, Legal, Cultural and Environmental Concerns Programming Project |
| Term | Topics |
| 1 | 2.2 Programming Fundamentals 2.1 Algorithms |
| 2 | 2.1 Algorithms |
| 3 | 2.3 Producing Robust Programs |
| 4 | 2.4 Boolean Robust Logic 2.5 Programming Languages and IDEs |
| 5 | Preparation for examination |
Enrichment opportunities for computer science
- Visit Bletchley Park to explore the achievements of Britain’s Second World War codebreakers at the historic site itself.
- Explore The Centre for Computing History in Cambridge, which includes a museum focused on computers and video games.
- Access additional practical learning activities through the Computing at School website, specifically tailored for secondary students.
- Take part in family-oriented programming experiences via West Midlands Computer Programming for Children.
- Make use of Isaac Computer Science, a free online course for both A Level and GCSE Computing.
- Attend after-school consolidation lessons and drop-in sessions to support learning and revision.
Additional Information
Useful websites for further study and support in GCSE Computer Science include:
