COMPUTING

Why study Computing?

Computers are an essential part of the modern world and as we move further into a digital age it is important that young people have access to a high-quality Computer Science curriculum. At Bay Leadership Academy we offer an exciting and rigorous Computer Science curriculum to hep develop a range of skills from practical programming to problem-solving and digital literacy.

How will I study Computing?

The computing curriculum teaches pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to solve problems. They will learn the principles of 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, with the skills to solve problems, design systems and understand human and machine intelligence. They will learn how to apply the academic principles they learn in the classroom to real-world systems in an exciting and engaging way.

What will I study at Key Stage 3?

Students in Year 7 will begin their studies with an introduction to data representation, learning different representations of data types from binary to hexadecimal. Once they have understood how data is represented, the students will begin to look at problem solving through computation thinking, including developing algorithms to solve problems. Next, the students will be introduced to key programming concepts and will develop their own coding solutions using a visual programming language. A Spreadsheets unit will follow to introduce the learners to spreadsheet modelling including using basic formula, functions and formatting. The penultimate unit will be Systems Architecture, which explores the hardware and software in use within common computer systems. Finally the students will delve into the world of cyber security to learn all about security risks we may be exposed to and ways they may be prevented.

Students in Year 8 and 9 will revisit the 6 main areas of study to build upon the skills gained in Year 7, the aim to achieve an in depth understanding of each area to prepare each learner for study at KS4. In Year 8 the students will expand their understanding of data representation through exploration of ASCII character sets to represent text and will learn how digital images are stored. Year 8 will enhance their programming skills using Edublocks, a visual coding tool based on the programming language Python. Complex functions and features will be explored in the Year 8 Spreadsheets unit which will provide learners with the tools and techniques to create spreadsheet models effectively.

Year 9 students will continue to master the 6 key areas of study, consolidating their previous learning whilst expanding their knowledge further to ready themselves for Computer Science at KS4. In Year 9, students will develop their understanding of different searching and sorting algorithms to help solve problems. Students will learn how to write programming solutions using a text-based programming language (Python) and they will have the opportunity to explore different types of networks, how they work and the system architecture required to support them.

What will I study at Key Stage 4?

Students will study GCSE Computer Science (OCR) at KS4.

This qualification is split into two components and practical programming practice:

Component 1: Computer Systems

This unit introduces students to different types of hardware and software, memory and storage types, data representation, networks, network topologies and network security. It will also explore ethical, legal cultural and environmental issues associated with computers and the use of technology.

Component 2: Computational thinking, algorithms and programming

In this unit students will develop skills and understanding in computational thinking, algorithms and programming techniques. Students will learn techniques to produce efficient code and robust programs by applying computational logic.

Practical Programming

Students will be given the opportunity to use a high-level programming language to complete programming tasks allowing them to develop their skills to design, write, test and refine programs.

Assessment at Key Stage 4

Students will be assessed via 2 external written examinations which will be taken in the summer term of Year 11.

External Assessment

Enrichment Offer

The department offers subject-specific enrichment clubs and pupils are able to use the school’s state-of-the-art IT facilities at both lunchtime and after school. Pupils are able to take part in school-wide competitions, as well as representing the school in local and national competitions designed to increase their engagement and enhance their subject knowledge. Intervention sessions to consolidate prior learning and ensure maximum progress are at the heart of our delivery model.  Clubs include a KS3 Computing Club, CyberFirst opportunities and weekly intervention/revision classes after school.

Careers

The study of Computer Science can lead to a vast range of careers in this ever-changing digital world. Careers in Computer Science may include Software Engineers, Web Developers, Data Scientists, Games Developers, App Developers, Robotics and Technical Support roles to name a few.

Useful Resources and Revision Support

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zvc9q6f

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/z34k7ty

Seneca Learning

Computingatschool.org.uk