Academics
Key Stage 4
In KS4 students follow the Cambridge iGCSE ICT course, and it is designed to be run over the course of two years. The Information Communication Technology syllabus encourages students to develop lifelong skills, which will be useful to them in their work across the curriculum and prepare them for future employment. It also aims to encourage the exploration and study of ICT in a variety of contexts: home, community, business, industry, recreation and education.
In any given situation students will have the opportunity to acquire competence, ability and critical skills through the implementation, use and evaluation of a range of ICT systems. Students can develop their interests in, enjoyment of and critical reflections on ICT as an integral part of modern society.
The syllabus combines theoretical and practical studies focusing on the ability to use common software applications to solve problems, including word processors, spreadsheets, databases, interactive presentation software, web browsers and website design. Students analyse, design, implement, test and evaluate ICT systems, ensuring that they are fit for purpose.
Key Stage 5
The aim of the Cambridge International AS and A Level Computer Science syllabus is to encourage learners to develop an understanding of the fundamental principles of computer science and how computer programs work in a range of contexts.
Learners will study topics including information representation, communication and Internet technologies, hardware, software development, and relational database modelling. As they progress, learners will develop their computational thinking and use problem solving to develop computer-based solutions using algorithms and programming languages. Studying Cambridge International AS and A Level Computer Science will help learners develop a range of skills such as thinking creatively, analytically, logically and critically.
They will also be able to appreciate the ethical issues that arise with current and emerging computing technologies.
Computer Science is a discipline which requires thinking both in abstract and in concrete terms. On a higher level, computer science is concerned with problem solving: modelling and analysing problems, designing solutions, and implementing them. Problem solving requires precision, creativity, and careful reasoning.
