ICT and Computer Science

Facilities and Resources

Girls are encouraged to use their own devices, with Microsoft OneNote used for worksheets. Lessons take place within a whole-class suite of desktop computers which allows access to additional software. We also have sets of Raspberry Pi, micro:bit and MakeyMakey boards and a range of subject specific videos, interactive quizzes and activities are available via Moodle, which further enriches the pupils’ learning experience.

Key Stage 3

The course taught from Years 7 to 9 includes elements from each of the three main strands:

  • Information Technology: girls acquire, or reinforce, the necessary basic IT skills using their device in the digital classroom (including word processing, spreadsheets, using the Internet and email).
  • Digital literacy: girls develop an understanding of the wider implications of the subject (including Internet Safety, Digital footprints, Data Protection and Copyright).
  • Computer Science: girls gain an insight into the fundamentals of Computer Science and computer coding (Scratch/Python).

Girls work towards their Bronze Inspiring Digital Enterprise Award (iDEA) and a growing number complete their Silver Award too!

Key Stage 4 and 5

GCSE Computer Science allows girls to develop an understanding of the main principles of how computers work and using computers for problem solving. Girls then apply their understanding to develop computer-based solutions to problems using algorithms and a high level programming language (Python). A Level Computer Science allows girls to study the foundational principles and practices of computation and computational thinking and their application in the design and development of computer systems. Girls develop a systematic approach to problem solving: Analysis, Design, Implementation, Testing and Evaluation through a range of programming exercises. Our primary programming language is Python, one of the most popular languages used in industry today.

Extra-Curricular

In addition to offering a range of other activities throughout the year including physical computing and Minecraft coding, we also enter a number of national competitions including: Bebras / TCS Oxford Computing Challenge run by the University of Oxford – girls are regularly placed within the top 5% nationally; Cyber First Girls Competition run by the National Cyber Security Centre (part of GCHQ) – our Year 8 team were placed in the top three schools in 2019 and were semi-finalists in 2020; Cyber Discovery programme run by the SANS Institute on behalf of GCHQ – girls are regularly invited to participate in the final stages.

“ICT is really fun and learning on devices also helps us get better at using them in other subjects.”

A Year 7 pupil

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