Computer Science: Students will advance their knowledge by learning how to program using Python as our primary language while developing techniques in understanding what is meant by computational thinking and hone their wider skills in problem solving.
- Decomposition
- Pattern recognition
- Abstraction
- Pattern generalisation
- Algorithm design
Information Technology: Students will have ample opportunities to undertake projects using a wide range of industry standard tools to develop their competence in key areas which employers require.
Digital Literacy: Students will be taught how to use IT safely and respectively, developing a firm understanding of what is meant by E-Safety and Digital Footprint. Key legislative issues will be outlined providing students with awareness of their behaviour online and the impact it has on them, others and society.
Intent
We believe the value of computing at HGSC is to provide all students with confidence in using IT in and out of school. Students, regardless of circumstances and/or ability, should be given the tools of empowerment, knowledge and motivation to want to make an impact on our world. We aim to ensure that all students:
- Develop competence in problem solving and learn how to think like a Computer Scientist;
- Have the opportunity to learn how to program in at least 2 languages;
- Have the opportunity to learn a broad range of IT tools and techniques;
- Understand the current importance of computing in society and predict future
advancements in technology.
Implementation
Computing is taught from Y7 to Y9 as a fixed part of our whole school curriculum with the option of further study from Y10/Y11 to Y12/Y13. Key Stage 3 will cover the three main strands in computing; computer science, information technology and digital literacy. All content will be covered in lessons throughout the first three years of study with students given the opportunity to shape Key Stage 4 by opting for either GCSE Computing or Cambridge Nationals in Creative iMedia.
In addition to this we will provide extra-curricular opportunities to support lesson content across all year groups.
Lessons and extracurricular activities are taught so that students:
- Overcome challenging problems and experience the rewards of perseverance
- Secure and build on a range of IT skills and techniques
- Develop a positive attitude
- Build confidence in using IT
- Learn to become a developer
- Have a strong foundation for lifelong competence in digital literacy
- Experience collaboration in project work
Impact
Computing is taught to equip everyone with a minimum competence and skill set to continue to learn and adapt their future employability profile as technology changes. We believe that if students are taught well, they should feel the excitement and motivation to want to succeed, have the drive to up skill and have an in-depth awareness of what a Computer Scientist can do, contribute and achieve in this world.
At HGSA, we provide opportunities for students to feel like a real life developer, experience project based collaboration working in a team and become highly confident in using IT to offer solutions to any problem that might come their way.
We provide opportunities to work with our own school network, experience what it is like getting hands on with hardware, debugging programs that we use across the school and having fun creating game modifications which could be shared across the community.
Most recently, our students have gone on to study computer science at a wide range of universities as well as embarking on careers in software engineering and programming. We currently also have a computer science student who works as a member of our IT staff working through an apprenticeship in IT Infrastructure.
Curriculum Maps