Computing and IT

Vision statement

We believe that Computing is an empowering subject that equips students with the knowledge and skills required for the modern world. Our curriculum reflects the breadth of Computing, encompassing Digital Literacy, Information Technology, and Computer Science. We aim to provide all students with a strong foundation, enabling them to specialise in either Computer Science or IT during their time with us.

To support this, we offer two qualification pathways at Key Stage 4: GCSE Computer Science and Level 2 Digital IT. Through GCSE Computer Science, students develop proficiency in the Python programming language, strengthening their computational thinking and problem-solving skills. In contrast, Level 2 Digital IT provides students with practical experience of a wide range of software packages, equipping them with valuable, employable business skills.

Our curriculum reflects the fact that the discipline of Computing is constantly evolving, and includes opportunities for all students to learn about the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence, and associated ethical, moral and legal implications.

Inspirational Quotes

• “Life is a series of building, testing, changing and iterating” - Lauren Mosenthal

• “Everyone should learn to program a computer, because it teaches you how to think” - Steve Jobs 

• “Don’t just play on your phone, program it” - Barack Obama

• “Software is a great combination between artistry and engineering” - Bill Gates

A typical Computing & IT Lesson

Our curriculum contains lessons focused on theory content, and practical lessons focused on skill-building with new programs or programming languages. All of our lessons begin with a retrieval to activate relevant prior knowledge. 

Whether students are working on paper, or on-screen, we adopt a reading-rich booklet-based curriculum. Students benefit from high-quality teacher explanations, accompanied by high-value tasks allowing this to be applied in context. We make heavy use of mini-whiteboards to check students’ understanding of topics.