The impact we have on our pupils relies upon a flexible and individualised curriculum. In ICT Key Stage 3 the aim is to give students a broad and varied understanding of many aspects of ICT. This does not just involve using the computers (hands on the keyboard and mouse) but also understanding many of the reasons how and why things work (inside the computer case). To this end student learn how to use various types of software, making decisions about the suitability of each package. In addition, they discover how the hardware actually works.
The curriculum is constantly changing and adapting to meet the individual needs and interests of the students. Areas currently studied include:
Uses for Office Programs
- Word Processing
- Desktop Publishing
- Presentations
- Spreadsheets
- Databases
Understanding Computer Systems
- The history of ICT
- Different digital devices
- Hardware and Software
- Networks
- What’s in the Box?
Artificial Intelligence
- What is AI?
- Machine Learning
- Ethics of AI
- Image recognition
Graphics
- Introduction to Vectors graphics
- Bitmap Graphics
- Conveying meaning
- Effects and enhancements
- Adding text
- Pixel Art
In ICT Key Stage 4 the aim is to build on the knowledge gained in Key Stage 3, we take the ICT learning at Key Stage 4 a stage further. Through years 10 and 11 students study a range of units designed to develop a higher level of understanding and skill.
The curriculum currently followed is the OCR ITQ Level 1 progressing onto Level 2. By completing 3 separate units in this course students can achieve a Level 1 in ITQ.
The five units delivered on this course at Level 1 and Level 2 are:
- Word Processing
- Spreadsheets
- Database Design
- PowerPoint
- Desktop Publishing
Once the coursework is complete the student undertakes a mock exam and then an exam. These exams are taken under exam conditions during lessons.