Computer Science

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Curriculum Intent

At St Gregory's, our curriculum is crafted to nurture essential life skills where we believe that each student is uniquely gifted and intelligent. Our purpose in Computer Science, is to unfold the gifts of each one and to encourage the same in the wider cross-curricular use of IT. We also make sure that students are well prepared for the digital age!

The study of Computer Science is vital in giving our students a knowledge and understanding of the rapidly expanding world of digital communications. All students need to develop an awareness of all issues surrounding Online Safety with particular emphasis on Social Media and Cyberbullying.

Health and Safety issues when using equipment and applications including the use of the internet; the protection of data and the consideration of copyright will also be developed. We also aim to develop a sense of responsibility and self-discipline in our students when using any form of IT.

 

Key Stage 3

Students will cover an exciting introduction to Computing principles across three years, where they follow a set of resources that revolves around short sharp skills units. This will be implemented following the themes below: -

 

  1. Computer Science – Students will understand the key concepts surrounding computers, how they work and interact
  2. Computer Programming –Students will use and understand a number of programming tools and constructs in different contexts
  3. Digital Safety and Responsibility – Students will understand the need to feel and be safe when using ICT tools and how to behave responsibly while doing so
  4. Digital Literacy and Creativity – Students will understand the importance of selecting, editing and combining a variety of digital content to create their own digital content and artefacts.

Students will learn to understand the importance of Computing in the wider world; the impact Computing has in the home, at work and for leisure by considering all issues surrounding the subject.

 

Key Stage 3 Computer Science Curriculum Map

Key Stage 4

Course: OCR GCSE Computer Science (9-1) – Course Code: J277
Exam Board Specification: OCR GCSE (9-1) Computer Science Specification – J277

We use the OCR Examination Board to assess students’ knowledge and understanding.

The curriculum focuses on thorough and reasoned understanding of the components that make up a wide range of computer systems where students can effectively select hardware and software for several different purposes and unfamiliar contexts.

They will also garner a thorough knowledge of how computing has changed and could change over time; how it impacts on individuals, business and society.

  1. Programming skills in a modern language (PYTHON)
  2. An understanding of how computers and networks work
  3. Knowledge of cyber-security and how hackers attack systems
  4. Develop vital understanding across a range of relevant computer science topics

 

Key Stage 4 Computer Science Curriculum Map

Key Stage 5

A Level Computer Science will inspire and equip students to tackle the IT challenges facing our modern world. Students will learn how computers work and start programming in formal scripting languages.

Alongside the theory, students will develop their own software project and associated reports to solve a real-life problem – enabling them to become a real problem solver, to analyse information effectively and to plan projects properly. This project can also form a useful discussion topic for UCAS applications.

In addition Students will learn about the technology that really powers all those things they love using, from websites such as Instagram, You Tube, and Snapchat etc to the games they enjoy playing like Call of Duty and Sims.

 

Key Stage 5 Computer Science Curriculum Map