Information Technology and Computing: Statement of Intent
Computing is integral in all people’s lives. Our vision is to provide a high-quality computing education that equips students to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Computing has deep links with Mathematics, Science, and Design & Technology, and provides insights into both natural and artificial systems.
The core of computing is Computer Science, in which students are taught the principles of problem solving and computation, how computer systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming and problem solving. To build this knowledge and understanding, students are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Computing also ensures that students become digitally literate – able to use, express themselves and develop their ideas through information technology.
Our Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 curriculum both offer aspects of Computer Science, Computational Thinking, Computing Unplugged and Information Technology. Computer Science is a more in-depth course and deals with data, the hardware of computers, networks, the internet and programming, whereas Information Technology deals with using computers to acquire and use knowledge as applied in the business world.
At Key Stage 3, our aim is to prepare students with the knowledge and skills to be ‘Key Stage 4 ready’ so they can make informed choices when choosing their GCSE optional subjects.
At Key Stage 4, BTEC Digital Information Technology and GCSE Computer Science are both option subjects. Both courses are aimed to prepare students with the knowledge, skills and confidence to be ready for the next stage of their life either in further education or career.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
Our aim is to ensure that all our students:
- To allow students to gain IT skills that are desirable in industry and increase their chances of employment.
- To give students the required skills to enable them to access Further Education
- Can understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation
- Can analyse problems in computational terms, and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs in order to solve such problems
- Can evaluate and apply information technology, including new or unfamiliar technologies, analytically to solve problems
- Are responsible, competent, confident and creative users of Information and Communication Technology
- Can appreciate the importance of legal and ethical issue when using digital device/media
RANGE OF OPPORTUNITIES
Students have a wide range of opportunities to take part in such as:
- iDEA certification
- Cyber Challenge
- STEM activities
FACILITIES
5 Computing suites each with work stations installed with up to date operating systems (Windows 10 with Office 2016) and programs allowing access to the school network and the internet. 66% of classrooms have an interactive screen, the remainder have an interactive whiteboard with projector.
We also have 60 iPADS available to be reserved for lessons in classrooms without computers.
Although full internet access is allowed, this is managed by filtering systems provided by the Local Education Authority and monitored by our Designated Safeguarding Lead via our own filtering software and antivirus programs.
Christ the King students and staff use Firefly as the school’s learning platform which is supplemented by Office 365 and Microsoft TEAMS.
FUTURE PATHWAYS
The study of Computing and wider Information Technology supports progression in careers such as:
- Applications Development
- Cyber Security and Risk Management
- Data Analysis and Analytics
- Hardware Engineer
- IT Consultancy
- Multimedia Programming
- Game Development
- Software Engineer
- Technical Support
