Computer Science

The Computer Science faculty makes full use of modern, cloud-based learning. As a Google school, we primarily use cloud platforms to deliver our curriculum, enabling flexible, collaborative, and accessible learning from anywhere. With access to Chromebooks, students can engage with the latest technology and industry-standard software, supporting both practical activities and theory-based work through cloud services.

Welcome to the Computer Science Department – Subject Leader: Ms A. Zannides

Key Stage 3

Our Computer Science curriculum is both fun and stretching, covering aspects of Computer Science, digital literacy and creativity. The areas of study offer students broad experiences within the subject area. Over the course of Key Stage 3, students will have experienced and studied many different areas of Computer Science to give them a taste of what the subject entails. For example Programming in Scratch, and Python. While also understanding Algorithms and binary logic, Computer Hardware and Software. Students study Computer Science for 1 hour a week in Years 7, 8 and 9.

Key Stage 3 Curriculum Maps

Year 7 Curriculum Rationale and Overview

Year 8 Curriculum Rationale and Overview

Year 9 Curriculum Rationale and Overview

Key Stage 4

Students can select to study OCR GCSE Computer Science in Key Stage 4. This qualification builds on the foundation of knowledge acquired at Key Stage 3 and is a combination of practical and theory lessons. This qualification is assessed through two theory based examinations.

Students develop programming skills throughout the course in preparation for their exams. Topics are chosen from a range set by the examination board, but in recent years students have designed and developed programs such as complex calculators, hangman games, arithmetic quizzes and technical trouble-shooters.

As part of the theory based examination, students study many key topic areas; Systems Architecture, Networking and Protocols, Systems Security, Systems Software, Computational Thinking, Programming Techniques, Computational Logic, Data Representation and Ethical, Legal, Cultural and Environmental Concerns.

Students also have the opportunity for extra curricular activities such as visits to the science museum and Bletchley Park.

Key Stage 4 Curriculum Maps

Year 10 Curriculum Rationale and Overview

Year 11 Curriculum Rationale and Overview