Computing & ICT

The Computer Science curriculum is aspirational because it aims to equip our pupils not just with current knowledge and skills but also present them with a range of careers and opportunities available in the field of computing such as game designers, network administrators, data analyst, etc. Thus, we are consistently shaping their understanding and mindset but also increasing their aspirations in the subject. Moreover, through well planned and taught lessons, we always encourage them to dream big by setting goals that sometimes might be beyond their current situations; and work hard enough to achieve those targets. They are also taught that technology is constantly evolving and as a department we offer them tools which will have a major impact on any future career they wish to embark on after leaving us since constantly reminded that they have the required potential to be a success in life.  

The Computer Science curriculum serves our pupils by presenting them with tools such as programming languages (e.g. Python) and hardware devices (e.g. computers) which allow them to have a real impact on their local community by creating applications and solutions (e.g. websites) which meet their local needs. Thus, they are taught procedural language techniques such as computational thinking and software development methods which will allow them to plan, design, implement, test and evaluate a solution after thorough analysis of the problem. Thinking computationally will also allow our pupils to better understand current trends and problems facing the world we are living in in terms of changing weather patterns and poverty, for example. Thus, they are better prepared to devise and provide appropriate and customised solutions that are meeting those needs. 

The Computer Science curriculum allows our pupils to flourish by ensuring that they develop critical thinking skills, problem solving skills, and digital literacy skills while fostering great creativity and resilience in a rapidly changing technological world. Thus, we ensure that they have all the necessary tools needed to acquire the relevant knowledge and be competitive in the job market after leaving us. To achieve these goals, they are taught well planned lessons which will always challenge them by removing any misconceptions regarding the field of Computing and closing any gaps in their knowledge. This will ultimately allow them to grow, succeed by fulfilling their potential. 

Sequencing in Computing and ICT   
  
The Computer Science curriculum is deliberately sequenced to build a logical progression of knowledge and skills, moving from foundational principles to advanced concepts.  We begin with Kodu Lab to introduce the core logic of sequencing through visual, game-based programming, followed by Spreadsheet to apply this logic to data. Students then transition to abstract planning with wireframing before bringing their designs to life with the sequential code of Web Design (HTML). Once they have a solid grasp of these concepts, they progress to Python to deepen their understanding of procedural programming.  Each unit builds on prior learning and is contextualized through real-world tasks and creative projects that foster problem-solving, digital literacy, and resilience. This cumulative approach ensures that Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5 exam prep courses are not just about memorization but about consolidating a deep, practical understanding of how sequencing underpins all computing, preparing them for both academic success and future careers. 

Adaptive Teaching in Computing and ICT  

Adaptive teaching in Computing and ICT is central to our inclusive ethos. Lessons are designed to be accessible and engaging for all students. Teachers provide visual aids, and key terms to support understanding and use retrieval activities to link new content to prior learning. Teachers invest time in understanding each learner’s needs, providing additional support or challenge as required, and using a variety of teaching methods to facilitate understanding. Teachers rephrase questions and adjust explanations to ensure all learners grasp the content, identifying and addressing misconceptions as they arise. Regular assessment and feedback ensure that teaching is responsive, enabling every student to grow in confidence and ambition. This approach ensures that all students, regardless of starting point, are supported to achieve and excel.  

Spirituality in Computing and ICT 

Spirituality in Computing and ICT is fostered through the exploration and use of a range of ethical and legislation tools that are used to teach our students how they can safely and legally use computers and the Internet. Thus, they are taught laws such as Computer Misuse Act or General Data Protection Regulations which allow or teach them the consequences of misusing data and computers. Ethically, programming being one of the key cornerstones of Computer Science relies heavily on creativity where programmers through algorithms and pseudocodes, express their creativity skills by writing codes which solve several problems facing human beings in their daily lives (e.g. traffic light control system, etc.). Students are also taught what impacts AI does currently have on humanity. Thus, creativity through artificial intelligence makes tasks which traditionally could have taken a considerable amount of time to be automated and quickly solved. Within the Computing department, students are always encouraged to write programs (e.g. calculator program, games, etc.) using high level languages such as Python to express their creativity ability and solve problems to overcome challenges. Thus, Computing through programming and computational thinking allow our students to draw a parallel and better understand the process of human creation written in the book of Genesis in the Bible that God followed to create the earth and its inhabitants.  

Learning Beyond the Classroom in Computing and ICT 

Students have access to a range of online resources that they can use to expand their knowledge on key topics which were taught in class. As a department, we have been using Microsoft Teams where relevant learning materials can also be found. Moreover, we have been using several resources including websites (e.g. https://craigndave.org/, YouTube video, etc.) which are available to the students.  We have also subscribed to a website (www.teach-ict.com) that students can use to better themselves in Computer Science. We also have some revision guides for our GCSE and A level students. 

Alongside their academic needs, we are also running some educational trips to the Museum of Computing in Milton Keynes where students can learn some of the key historical facts about the development of computers (e.g. Digital Revolution, etc.) but also learn or do a range of practical activities including programming in BBC Basic – Rocket Trajectory. All these extra-curricular activities will develop their interest in the subject as a whole but also ensuring that they are better placed to tackle the rapid development in modern technology.