Our Computing curriculum is designed to equip students with the digital literacy, computational thinking, and technical skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world. We aim to develop confident, creative, and responsible users of technology who can solve problems, think logically, and understand how digital systems work.

We offer an inclusive and forward-looking curriculum that supports all students in becoming not only consumers of technology but also creators. Through programming, data handling, and digital media, students learn to think critically, work collaboratively, and stay safe online.

By the end of Key Stage 4, students will be able to:

• Understand the principles of computer science, including algorithms, data representation, and programming
• Design, write, and debug programs using a range of languages and environments
• Analyse problems in computational terms and apply logical reasoning
• Understand the ethical, legal, and environmental impacts of digital technology
• Use digital tools confidently and responsibly for a range of purposes

Our intent is to prepare students for further study, digital careers, and active participation in a technology-driven society.

Curriculum overview

Key Stage 3

Students build foundational knowledge and skills in computer science, digital literacy, and information technology.

Year 7 topics:

• Digital literacy: Creative use of applications and consideration of e-safety, privacy, ethics, and intellectual property – links to OCR Creative iMedia
• Computer science: Problem solving and introduction to programming – links to GCSE Computer Science
• Information technology: Use of a range of applications including Microsoft and Adobe suites – links to OCR Creative iMedia

Units of work include:

• Binary number system
• Block programming using Scratch
• Understanding computers
• Office skills in Office365

Year 8 topics:

• Digital literacy: Creative use of applications and consideration of e-safety, privacy, ethics, and intellectual property – links to OCR Creative iMedia
• Computer science: Problem solving and introduction to programming – links to GCSE Computer Science
• Information technology: Use of a range of applications including Microsoft and Adobe suites

Units of work include:

• Internet safety – how to stay safe online
• Programming – using a text-based language
• Photoshop – digital graphics editing
• Spreadsheets – Excel skills
• Visual identity – introduction to Creative iMedia
• Scratch game development

Key Stage 4

Students follow either a GCSE Computer Science course or a vocational qualification in digital technology.

GCSE Computer Science (AQA):

• Components of a computer system
• Data representation
• Computer communications and networking
• Databases and SQL programming

Cambridge Nationals in Creative iMedia:

• Creative iMedia in the media industry – external examination
• Visual identity and digital graphics

OCR Cambridge Nationals in IT:

• IT in the digital world – external examination
• Data manipulation using spreadsheets
• Using augmented reality to present information

Assessment includes written exams and internally assessed coursework.

Courses offered

• GCSE Computer Science
• Cambridge Nationals in IT or Creative iMedia

Enrichment opportunities

We offer a range of enrichment activities to extend students’ digital skills and inspire interest in computing and technology. These include:

• Coding Club: Exploring programming languages, game design, and app development
• Cybersecurity challenges: Participation in national competitions such as CyberFirst
• STEM and robotics projects: Cross-curricular opportunities to build and program devices
• Tech talks and industry links: Guest speakers from the tech sector and virtual tours
• Digital Leaders Programme: Student ambassadors supporting e-safety and digital literacy across the school

These experiences help students apply their learning in real-world contexts and explore future pathways in the digital and tech industries.