The transformation from traditional ICT to the new Computing KS3 curriculum will prepare Barnwood Park students for the GCSE in Computer Science and develop their understanding of the technologies that they use on an everyday basis. Our KS3 curriculum has been designed so that students are able to build upon their previous learning and develop a greater level of understanding and skill. It aims to build confidence and skills in key skills and ensure these are approached with a consideration for ethical issues raised by new technologies.

KS3

Here is a basic outline of our current KS3 curriculum: 

Our KS3 Computing Curriculum prepares students well for GCSE Computer Science and gives them a working knowledge of programming, as well as allowing for reflection on the impact of technology in our lives.

Additionally, the Computing department also offers a range of extra-curricular actives including Robotics and cross-curricular STEAM projects.

KS4

At Key Stage 4 students are able to study OCR GCSE Computer Science 

GCSEComputer Science is concerned with logical thinking, computer design, and computer programming. It gives learners a real, in-depth understanding of how computer technology works. This course provides excellent preparation for higher study and employment in Computer Science and allows learners to develop critical thinking, analysis and problem-solving skills. 

During the course students gain an in-depth understanding of how the computer works and what you can make it do, exploring networks and systems development.

Students study a mixture of theory (learning the principles and concepts of computer science) and computational thinking and practice (learning how to solve problems, write efficient code and build working systems). A major focus is also on cyber security. 

Course content outline and how learning will be assessed

Unit 1 (50%) Written Exam 1 hr 30 mins: Computer systems 80 marks. 

• Topics in Computer Systems module: Systems Architecture, Memory, Storage, Wired and wireless networks, Network topologies, protocols and layers, System security, and Systems software. It also includes a section on Ethical, legal cultural and environmental concerns.

Unit 2 (50%) Written Exam 1 hr 30 mins: Computational thinking, algorithms and programming 80 marks.

• Topics in this module: Algorithms, Programming techniques, Producing robust programs, Computational logic, data representation, Translators and facilities of languages. 

Unit 3 – Programming project (not examined) 

Programming Techniques; Analysis; Design; Development; Testing and evaluation.