Computing & IT

Information Technologies

The collection and communication of data and storing of data/information happens all around us. It can be seen in wearable fitness trackers, mobile phone recording usage and online retailers recording purchase history. Technology underpins how data is collected and communicated nearly all of the time. Students will learn how and why data is gathered and will learn how to turn raw data into something meaningful. Students will gain confidence to use a range of information technology that is currently available.

Computer Science

Computer Science aims to develop students’ understanding of the digital world around us in computational terms. Computer Science focuses on the study, design, and implementation of computer systems, and understanding the underlying principles. A sound understanding of computing concepts will not only help students to see how to get the best from the systems they use, but how to solve problems when things go wrong.

Staff

Mr. S. Lang
Curriculum Team Leader - ICT and Computer Science
computing@minsterschool.org.uk

Curriculum

You can download a copy of the ICT Learning Journey for the Minster school below.

KS3

In Years 7 and 8, students attend 2 lesson per fortnight. In Year 9, students attend 3 lessons per fortnight. During KS3, we explore topics such as Office Skills, Web Design, Data Handling and eSafety in Information Technology, and programming, system control, data handling and networking in Computer Science.

KS4

Cambridge Nationals Information Technologies

At GCSE level, students attend 4-5 lessons per fortnight. During the course students will learn about tools and techniques for use in different digital hardware and software technologies, and how these can be integrated to create digital solutions to manage and communicate data and information. They will also be taught what data and information are and the legal, ethical and moral considerations when using technology to gather, store and present data and information, and how to mitigate the risks of cyber-attacks

Board and Specification

Cambridge Nationals Information Technologies

Assessment Components

(May-June of Y11)

Understanding tools, techniques, methods and processes for technological solutions (R012) (Written Exam)	50%
Developing technological solutions (R013) (Coursework)	50%

Recommended Study Aids

Cambridge National Level 1/2 Certificate in Information Technologies - ISBN: 9781510423275

Computer Science:

At GCSE level, students attend 4-5 lessons per fortnight. During the course students will study Computer Systems, Computational Thinking, Algorithms & complete a Programming Project.

Board and Specification

GCSE - Computer Science (9-1) - J277 (from 2020) - OCR