"Everybody in this country should learn how to program a computer...because it teaches you how to think."
- Steve Jobs
Home
Staff
- Mr Anthony Brady (Head of Department)
- Mr Ronan Murphy
- Mr Declan Barry (IT Technician)
Facilities
Our department has access to 82 networked workstations housed in three spacious and modern Computing and ICT suites, each of which are fully equipped with Wi-Fi , interactive whiteboards and Apple TV.
Background
The Computing and ICT department aims to provide our students with the technical knowledge, skills and understanding needed in a world increasingly dominated by the use of IT systems. Our new Key Stage 3 curriculum places a much greater emphasis on programming and Computer Science with both ICT and Computer Science currently offered as A Level options. Our curriculum is enriched through a weekly after school coding club where students have the opportunity to develop their computer programming skills in a more informal learning environment.
Key Stage 3
Computing is offered to all students for one double lesson per week in years 8, 9 and 10.
As well as developing the digital skills necessary to support the delivery of the whole school curriculum, our computing courses promote the skills of computational thinking and problem solving.
All students have opportunities to learn how to code using software and hardware such as Scratch, Gamemaker, Python and the BBC Micro Bit. Pupils also become proficient in using generic application software to create and develop databases, spreadsheets, websites and digital video.
GCSE
Building on the skills learned at Key Stage 3 we offer GCSE Digital Technology at Key Stage 4.
This unique CCEA course consists of two pathways where year 11 students can opt to specialise in either Multimedia or Computer Programming.
With this qualification, students may choose to progress to a Computer Science or IT related qualification at A Level. This GCSE also helps to equip students for a career in a multitude of industries, such as digital media, mobile development, cyber security, cloud computing and managing big data.
Results
A-Level
Computer Science
Our department offers A Level Computer Science, a course which gives students an in-depth understanding of the fundamental concepts of computer science including the skills of computational thinking and computer programming. This course gives students an excellent foundation for further education and careers in Computing and IT.
Results
It is a good time to be working in IT and computing.
The sector is one of the fastest-moving and most dynamic in the UK – currently employing 1 in 20 of us.
It’s estimated that over half a million new entrants will be needed to fill jobs in this sector over the next five years.
There are opportunities for IT and computing graduates across all industries, including retail, financial services, telecommunications, broadcast media, digital media, manufacturing, transport, tourism, the public sector and healthcare – with strong growth and demand in cyber security, mobile development, cloud computing and the management of big data.
Cambridge Technicals Introductory Diploma in IT
Cambridge Technicals are vocational qualifications at Level 3 for students aged 16+. They’re designed with the workplace in mind and provide a high-quality alternative to A Levels, with a great range of subjects to choose from. Vocational education is not just about results, it’s about educating people in the knowledge and skills required for employment and for the community as a whole. It’s also about developing the behaviours and attributes needed to progress and succeed in education and in work.
This course consists of a wide range of units including Communication and Employability Skills for IT, Website Production, Developing Computer Games, Spreadsheet Modelling and Digital Graphics.
This qualification is an ideal foundation for students entering the world of work, providing them with a theoretical background reinforced with practical skills that transfer into the modern workplace.
Students will develop practical skills in using software and IT systems in the world of work. They will also reflect on and develop the communication and employability skills expected of them in the workplace.