Computing

A high-quality computing education equips pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Computing has deep links with mathematics, science, and design and technology. It provides insights into both natural and artificial systems. The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Building on this knowledge and understanding, students are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Computing also ensures that pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through, information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world. 

Students have 2 lessons over 2 weeks

 

Autumn

Spring

Summer

Year 7

Cyber-Safety 
 
HS Intranet  
 
Spy School 

How computers work 
 
Binary and Control 
 
Adventure Story 

Scratch 
 
Repeating Patterns 
 
Pivot Stick 

Year 8

Cyber-Safety 
Technology 
 
Interactive quiz 

HTML 
 
Faircop database 

Binary 
 
Fundamentals of programming 1 (Python)  

Year 9

Cyber-Safety 
 
Networks  
 
Computational Thinking 

Databases 
 
How the web works 
 
Fundamentals of programming 2 (Python) 

Ethical and Legal issues in Computing 
 
Website production 

Outside the classroom

Pupils are encouraged to visit: London's Science Museum new technology gallery: which tells the story of 200 years of communication technology.

Progression pathways and careers

The GCSE qualification opens a new world of possibilities in regard to both job prospects and future Level 3 qualifications.  This course can lead onto traditional A levels and vocational equivalents. It will also equip you with life skills that will stand you in good stead for any future job. Computing supports a number of further education and career pathways. It is well respected academically and will be a strong support to students intending to study medicine, law, engineering, computing, foreign languages, physical sciences or maths-based courses at university. As computing pervades all aspects of study and contemporary research, this course supports a very wide range of career paths at university in addition to those listed above. 


Useful links

http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/gcse-computing-j275-from-2012

http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/subjects/z34k7ty

http://www.cambridgegcsecomputing.org/

http://www.teach-ict.com/gcse_computing.html

Contact

Fatuma Nyembo - Co-Ordinator of KS3 Computing

NyemboF@hendonschool.co.uk