Curriculum
Computing & creative iMedia
The computing curriculum teaches pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to solve problems. They will learn the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work and how to create programs and systems of their own. As a result, our pupils will become responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information and communication technology.
What will I study at Key Stage 3?
Pupils in KS3 will explore computer systems and digital devices, including both physical and digital components. They will master problem solving through using computational thinking and create algorithms to solve problems. The curriculum introduces students to text-based programming with Python. The lessons form a journey that starts with simple programs involving input and output, and gradually moves on through arithmetic operations, selection, iteration, and string manipulation. Pupils develop essential knowledge on binary representations and how computers translate human interaction. Pupils are introduced to binary digits and how they can be used to represent text and numbers.
Pupils go on to develop their understanding of information and digital literacy skills. Pupils will develop software formatting skills and master spreadsheet skills including the use of formulas and functions. Pupils also look at social engineering techniques used by cybercriminals and how to prevent these threats. This is followed by pupils exploring the technologies that make up the internet and the World Wide Web.
What will I study at Key Stage 3?
Year 10 – Pearson BTEC Level 1/Level 2 Tech Award in Digital Information Technology
Digital Information Technology is for learners who want to acquire technical knowledge and technical skills through vocational contexts by studying the knowledge, understanding and skills related to data management, data interpretation, data presentation and data protection as part of their Key Stage 4 learning. The qualification recognises the value of learning skills, knowledge and vocational attributes to complement GCSEs. The qualification will broaden the learners experience and understanding of the varied progression options available to them. Yr11 will finish the last units of the OCR iMedia course.
Year 11 – OCR iMedia Cambridge National Level 1/2 in Creative iMedia
Pupils study Interactive Media through a holistic approach by completing projects that will result in a completed interactive media product for a client. The curriculum teaches pupils to use team working, independent learning and problem-solving skills to complete the projects. Pupils will learn the features, techniques and processes needed to create a successful interactive media product that can be sold to a client. As a result, our pupils will become responsible, competent, confident, and creative users of information and communication technology, with the skills to solve problems, design, plan and create an interactive media product that will meet the requirements of a client’s brief. They will learn how to apply the academic principles they learn in the classroom to real-world scenarios in an exciting and engaging way.
What will I study at Key Stage 4?
Pearson BTEC Level 1/Level 2 Tech Award in Digital Information Technology
The BTEC Tech Award comprises of three components and focus on the assessment of knowledge, skills, and practices. The Tech Award gives learners the opportunity to develop sector-specific applied knowledge and skills through realistic vocational contexts. The main focus is on four areas of equal importance, which cover the:
- development of key skills that prove your aptitude in digital information technology, such as project planning, designing and creating user interfaces and dashboards as a way to present and interpret data
- process that underpins effective ways of working in digital information technology, such as project planning, the iterative design process, cyber security, virtual teams, legal and ethical codes of conduct
- attitudes that are considered most important in digital information technology, including personal management and communication
- knowledge that underpins effective use of skills, process and attitudes in the sector such as how different user interfaces meet user needs, how organisations collect and use data to make decisions, virtual workplaces, cyber security and legal and ethical issues
Pearson BTEC Level 1/Level 2 Tech Award in Digital Information Technology
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Comp 1 – Exploring User Interface Design Principles and Project Planning Techniques Internally Assessed
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A Understand interface design for individuals and organisations. |
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Comp 2 – Collecting, Presenting and Interpreting Data
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A Understand how data is collected and used by organisations and its impact on individuals. |
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Comp 3 – Effective Digital Working Practices
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AO1 Demonstrate knowledge of facts, terms, processes, and issues in relation to digital information technology. |
YR11 – Will study the final year of the OCR Level 1/Level 2 Cambridge National in Creative Media
The Cambridge National in Creative iMedia will encourage students to:
- understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of digital media including factors that influence product design, use of media codes and conventions, pre-production planning techniques, legal issues, and creation/publishing/distribution considerations
- develop learning and practical skills that can be applied to real-life contexts and work situations
- think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically, and critically
- develop independence and confidence in using skills that would be relevant to the media industry and more widely
- design, plan, create and review digital media products which are fit for purpose meeting both client and target audience requirements
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R093 – Creative iMedia in the media industry
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Creative iMedia in the media industry This is assessed by taking an exam. In this unit you will learn about the media industry, digital media products, how they are planned, and the media codes which are used to convey meaning, create impact, and engage audiences. Topics Include
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R094 – Visual identity and digital graphics
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Visual identity and digital graphics This is assessed by completing a set assignment. In this unit you will learn to how to develop visual identities for clients and use the concepts of graphic design to create original digital graphics to engage target audiences. Topics include:
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R097 – Interactive digital media
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Interactive digital media This is assessed by completing a set assignment. In this unit you will learn how to plan, create and review interactive digital media products. Topics include:
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Enrichment
The department offers subject-specific enrichment clubs and pupils are able to use the school’s state-of-the-art IT facilities. Pupils are able to take part in representing the school in local and national competitions designed to increase their engagement and enhance their subject knowledge, such as the CyberFirst Girls’ Competition. Clubs include a Coding club.
Careers
IT skills and knowledge are useful in whichever direction you choose to embark upon. Possible career choices are: Network Manager, Web Development, Software Engineering and Architect, Data Analyst, Data Science, Cyber Security, Project management, accountancy and Teaching.