Computer Science
Mr. J. Lockyer – Head of Department
The National Curriculum states that Computer Science should equip pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world, using information technology to create programs, systems and a range of media. At Testwood, students are already reaping the benefit of acquiring these skills at both Key Stage 3 and 4.
The Computer Science department aims to give pupils a greater and deeper understanding of the digital world, how it works and how it is constantly changing. It is an increasingly important area of our cohort’s lives, therefore it is vital for us to consistently develop these ideas throughout our curriculum and into our lessons. The emphasis is on helping our students identify, understand and explain different areas of Computer Science, including – but not limited to – how programming, software applications, hardware and artificial intelligence are applied to our daily lives.
OCR GCSE Paper 1
1.1 Systems Architecture
1.2 Memory and Storage
1.3 Computer Networks, Connections and Protocols
1.4 Network Security
1.5 Systems Software
1.6 Ethical, Legal, Cultural and Environmental Impacts of Digital Technology
OCR GCSE Paper 2
2.1 Algorithms
2.2 Programming Fundamentals
2.3 Producing Robust Programs
2.4 Boolean Logic
2.5 Programming Languages and Integrated Development Environments
Teacher
Mr. J. Lockyer
Year 7
– Google Skills
– Digital Safety
– Algorithms & Problem Solving
– Computer Systems
– Artificial Intelligence
– Games Development with Kodu
Teachers
Mr. J. Lockyer, Mrs. H. Haskell & Mrs. J. Boorman
Year 8
– Online Safety
– Artificial Intelligence
– Programming Fundamentals
– Boolean Logic
– Ethical, Legal, Environmental & Cultural Issues
– Introduction to Networking
– Web Design with Canva
Teachers
Mr. J. Lockyer, Mrs. H. Haskell & Mrs. J. Boorman
Year 9
– Social Media
– Data Protection
– Networking
– Programming Concepts
– Number Bases
– Advanced Programming
– Advanced Computer Systems
Teachers
Mr. J. Lockyer & Mrs. H. Haskell
Key Stage 3 Curriculum Intent
At KS3, we offer a bespoke learning experience, allowing Testwood students to build foundational skills in Computer Science. A key aspect of this is teaching students how to use computers safely and effectively. Covering a wide range of important topics, students are set up to succeed and have the ability to study Computer Science at a higher level.
The curriculum should also inspire and encourage curiosity to study Computer Science further while encompassing the national curriculum and additional, modern-day Computer Science skills that are accessible to all.
Key Stage 4 Curriculum Intent
At KS4, students study the OCR Computer Science GCSE. They build on core skills and knowledge gained in KS3 to develop a greater and deeper understanding of Computer Science.
Students gain the required skills to potentially study Computer Science at a higher level and then also have the ability to pursue a career in a STEM field. Students are encouraged to be aspirational with choices regarding further education and are given the opportunity to access higher-tier GCSE content to increase those options.
