Computing
At our school, we embrace an ambitious vision for our students within the Computing curriculum, instilling in them the skills, knowledge, and resilience to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape. Our commitment to ambition and rigour drives the following principles:
- Nurturing Computational Thinkers: Our primary focus is on nurturing computational thinkers. We empower students to become confident programmers, equipping them with essential skills such as abstraction, logic, algorithms, and data representation.
- Digital Literacy and Online Safety: In addition to programming, we emphasize digital literacy and online safety. Our students receive guidance on safe online practices and are taught the necessary steps to ensure their own safety and the well-being of others.
- Problem Solving and Innovation: We inspire creativity and problem-solving through the use of computational thinking. Students learn to evaluate and apply information technology, including emerging technologies, to analytically solve real-world problems.
- Social and Ethical Considerations: We foster ethical awareness. Our curriculum addresses key issues such as cyberbullying, online safety, security, plagiarism, and responsible digital communication, ensuring that students are not only skilled but also responsible digital citizens.
- Key Stage 4 Pathways: Our Key Stage 3 Computing curriculum aligns with the National Curriculum Computing programme of study and prepares students for their Key Stage 4 journey. Here, students have the opportunity to select from two distinct pathways:
- Computer Science GCSE: For those with a passion for in-depth computer science knowledge, we offer the option to study Computer Science at GCSE level. This pathway is designed for students seeking a rigorous, technical understanding of the field.
- Level 2 Cambridge National in Creative iMedia: For those inclined towards creative digital media, we provide the option to pursue a Level 2 Cambridge National in Creative iMedia. This qualification encourages students to explore creative aspects of computing.
Through our Computing curriculum, we instil ambition and rigour, preparing our students for a seamless transition into Key Stage 4, where they can tailor their studies to their unique interests and aspirations within the field of computing.
The Computing Department at Lacon Childe School understands that the use of technology has become increasingly important in the ever-changing world we live in. We aim to ensure our students are competent in the use of technology and give them the skills to enable them to progress into further education and into the world of work. Students enjoy the structured lessons and the opportunities to be creative when problem solving!
KEY STAGE 3 Computing
At Key Stage 3, we aim to embed skills and knowledge in three areas, including Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy. Students are expected to develop their capability to program using a range of programming techniques and languages so that they have a solid grounding should they wish to progress and study Computer Science at Key Stage 4 and above. Students will develop skills in Information Technology by completing various projects and creating various digital artefacts. They will also be able to combine software packages to accomplish goals for a given audience as required in Key Stage 4 Creative iMedia programme of study.
KEY STAGE 4 Computing
At Key Stage 4 , students have the opportunity to study a GCSE in Computer Science with the Creative iMedia programme.
We know our curriculum is working in the Computing department through our uptake of Key Stage 4 computing based qualifications. Students who have been successful in Computing have gone on to study the subject at college and higher level education.
Teachers collect evidence regularly, and student progress is tracked using half-termly assessments of individual computing projects. Learning walks are conducted regularly to identify specific staff needs and future training requirements. Additionally, future developments will involve all student work and assessments being online and accessible to all.
Curriculum Impact
At Key Stage 3, our approach to the Computing curriculum is designed to foster meaningful learning, track progress effectively, and prepare students for their future in the digital age. Our impact assessment strategy includes the following key elements:
- Personalised Learning Pathways: To meet the diverse needs and interests of our students, we place them on individualised learning pathways. These pathways are chosen based on students’ prior knowledge, interests, and aspirations within the field of computing.
- Continuous Monitoring: Throughout the academic year, we maintain a close watch on students’ progress. Each student’s journey is closely monitored through a series of half-termly units of work. These units of work are carefully crafted to provide a well-rounded foundation in computing.
- Assessment for Every Unit: Within each school year, students engage with six distinct units of work. At the conclusion of each unit, students are assessed rigorously in examination conditions. This not only allows them to apply their knowledge and skills but also provides them with a clear understanding of their individual progress.
- Individual and Collaborative Assessments: In addition to individual assessments, we emphasise collaborative project work, recognising the importance of teamwork and communication skills in the digital era. Some units involve group projects, and students are assessed on their ability to work effectively as part of a team.
- Qualitative and Quantitative Evaluation: Our assessment approach goes beyond grades and numbers. We consider both qualitative and quantitative measures, evaluating not only students’ technical competencies but also their problem-solving abilities, creativity, and ethical considerations in computing.
- Feedback and Support: Regular feedback sessions provide students with insights into their strengths and areas for improvement. This feedback is a catalyst for growth, guiding students towards achieving their full potential.
- Preparing for Key Stage 4: Our Key Stage 3 Computing curriculum is strategically designed to prepare students for Key Stage 4. As students progress through Key Stage 3, they are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed choices for their Key Stage 4 pathways, including Computer Science GCSE or Level 2 Cambridge National in Creative iMedia.
Through these comprehensive monitoring and assessment practices, we ensure that our students not only excel in Computing but also develop essential skills and attitudes for success in an ever-evolving digital world. This approach enables us to track and enhance the impact of our curriculum, fostering lifelong learners who are well-prepared for the opportunities and challenges of the future.