Intent
At St Peter’s, we aim to prepare our learners for their future by allowing them to gain knowledge and develop skills that will equip them for an ever-changing digital world. Knowledge and understanding of Computing and ICT are increasingly important for children’s future at home and for employment. Our Computing curriculum focuses on developing skills in digital literacy, computer science, information technology and online safety to ensure that children become competent in safely using and understanding technology.
Introduction
We aim to cover all aspects of the national curriculum and teach students how to use and create various software. Each student will have the equivalent of 2 x 50-minute lessons per week in KS3 and can then choose Computer Science as an option, where they will have 3 x 50-minute lessons per week at KS4. There are two staff members in the department, and at various times of the year, 'Code Club' runs, which focuses on different topics such as Python and App Development.
Mr T Alston
Head of Department
Miss J Halsall
Key Stage 3 Curriculum Map
|
|
Autumn 1 |
Autumn 2 |
Spring 1 |
Spring 2 |
Summer 1 |
Summer 2 |
|
Year 7 |
Using Computers Responsibly |
Using Computers Responsibly |
PowerPoint Skills |
Understanding Computers |
Understanding Computers |
Introduction to Games Programming |
|
Year 8 |
Data Representation |
Data Representation |
Microbits |
Microsoft Excel |
Computer Networks |
Computer Networks |
|
Year 9 |
Python Programming |
Python Programming |
Legal, Ethical, Cultural and Environmental Issues |
Computational Thinking |
Computational Thinking |
Computer Graphics |
Key Stage 4 Curriculum Map
|
|
Autumn 1 |
Autumn 2 |
Spring 1 |
Spring 2 |
Summer 1 |
Summer 2 |
|
Year 10 |
Computer Hardware |
Programming |
System Architecture |
Programming Languages |
Ethical, Legal, Cultural and Environmental Issues |
Algorithms |
|
Year 11 |
Programming Project |
Producing Robust Programs |
Network Security |
System Software |
Computer Networks |
Boolean logic |
The course will consist of 2 X 1hr 30minute exams, (both weighted at 50% each of the overall GCSE grade).
The current (9-1) specification covers the following topics at GCSE level:
- Systems architecture
- Memory
- Storage
- Wired and wireless networks
- Network topologies, protocols and layers
- System security
- Systems software
- Ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns
- Content of Computational thinking, algorithms and
- Programming
- Algorithms
- Programming techniques
- Producing robust programs
- Computational logic
- Translators and facilities of languages
- Data representation
BTEC Content
Pupils are following the BTEC Level 1/Level 2 Tech Award in Digital Information Technology, which is for learners who wish to acquire 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.
There are three components which make up this qualification:
Component 1: Exploring User Interface Design Principles and Project Planning Techniques
Learners developed their understanding of what makes an effective user interface and how to effectively manage a project. They used this understanding to plan, design and create a user interface.
This equates to 30% of the course which is internally assessed.
Component 2: Collecting, Presenting and Interpreting Data
Learners understand the characteristics of data and information and how they help organisations in decision making. They used data manipulation methods to create a dashboard to present and draw conclusions from information.
This equates to 30% of the course which is internally assessed.
Component 3: Effective Digital Working Practices
Learners explored how organisations use digital systems and the wider implications associated with their use.
This equates to 30% of the course which is externally assessed.
| Autumn 1 | Autumn 2 | Spring 1 | Spring 2 | Summer 1 | Summer 2 | |
| Year 10 |
Component 1: Exploring User Interface Design Principles and Project Planning Techniques A Investigate user interface design for individuals and organisations |
Component 1: Exploring User Interface Design Principles and Project Planning Techniques B Use project planning techniques to plan and design a user interface |
Component 1: Exploring User Interface Design Principles and Project Planning Techniques C Develop and review a user interface. |
Component 3: Effective Digital Working Practices A Modern technologies |
Component 3: Effective Digital Working Practices B Cyber security |
Component 3: Effective Digital Working Practices C The wider implications of digital systems |
| Year 11 |
Component 3: Effective Digital Working Practices D Planning and communication in digital systems |
Component 2: Collecting, Presenting and Interpreting Data A Investigate the role and impact of using data on individuals and organisations |
Component 2: Collecting, Presenting and Interpreting Data B Create a dashboard using data manipulation tools |
Component 2: Collecting, Presenting and Interpreting Data C Draw conclusions and review data presentation methods. |
Link to specifications
BTEC Level 1/Level 2 Tech Award in Digital Information Technology
Where does it lead?
Data Analyst, First line support, Junior Designer, Business Analyst, Test Analyst, Database Administrator, Software Developer
Specifications
Websites and Resources
Computer Science can be continued at A-Level, and a variety of university courses can be studied around the country. Potential careers include Software Developer, Network Engineer, Systems Analyst, Database Administrator, Security Services, Media Researcher, Computer Games Developer and many more.
Updated: Feb 2023