Computing
Vision
At Birchwood Community High School, our vision for the Computer Science curriculum is to inspire students and foster a deep appreciation and understanding of the digital world. We aim to develop digitally literate individuals who possess critical thinking skills, a curiosity for discovery, and an awareness of the ethical implications of computing advancements. Our curriculum is designed to empower students to engage with computer science, apply computing concepts to real-world situations, and become responsible digital citizens.
Values that underpin our subject:
- Knowledge: we value knowledge and encourage students to ask questions, explore, and seek answers through scientific inquiry. We believe that curiosity is the driving force behind scientific progress and discovery in the world of computing and IT so we encourage students to build their knowledge by constantly questioning what they have learned and how it fits in with the other strands of learning.
- Aspiration: we emphasize academic rigor in our computer science curriculum, promoting a strong foundation of scientific knowledge, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills. We challenge students to think critically, analyse data, and apply scientific principles in a rigorous and systematic manner in order to become digital experts.
- Kindness: we emphasise the ethical responsibility of computer scientists and encourage students to consider the societal and environmental impacts of computing advancements. We aim to cultivate responsible, informed decision-making regarding wider issues and promote ethical conduct in computer science.
- Empowerment: we strive to empower our students to become active and responsible participants in the digital community. We provide opportunities for hands-on coding, scientific investigations, and research projects that enable students to take ownership of their learning and develop a sense of expertise in the subject.
How do we build on what students learn at KS2?
To build on the foundations laid during Key Stage 2 (KS2), we ensure a smooth transition to Key Stage 3 (KS3) computing by collaborating with local primary schools. By aligning our curricula, we create continuity and address local contexts and resources. We aim to reinforce and expand upon the computational thinking skills and basic programming knowledge acquired in KS2, providing students with a solid grounding for further study.
How do we cover the KS3 National Curriculum and beyond?
At KS3, our computing curriculum is designed to cover the National Curriculum requirements whilst also incorporating broader knowledge beyond these standards. We believe it is essential for students to explore various aspects of computing beyond the prescribed curriculum to develop a well-rounded understanding of the subject. Digital literacy is also an important strand to our subject which is taught in discreet lessons but also runs through all of our teaching in the way that students evidence their knowledge and skills as we seek to ensure that students get the most out of modern cloud computing and the diverse range of digital products in the world today.
Year 7: in year 7, students build upon their KS2 knowledge and expand their understanding of computational thinking, algorithms, and basic programming concepts. They engage in hands-on activities, problem-solving exercises, and collaborative projects to develop their logical reasoning and programming skills.
Year 8: in year 8, students focus on further developing programming skills and knowledge, exploring different programming languages, and delving into more complex algorithms and data structures. Students work on practical projects that encourage creativity, critical thinking, and the application of computing principles to real-world scenarios.
Year 9: in year 9, students deepen their understanding of advanced programming concepts, such as object-oriented programming, database management, and web development.
Furthermore, students are introduced to emerging technologies and cutting-edge developments in the field of computing. They explore topics such as, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, and data analysis, enabling them to grasp the potential of these technologies and understand their ethical implications.
Wider knowledge beyond the KS3 National Curriculum:
In addition to covering the KS3 National Curriculum, we believe it is crucial to expose students to a wider range of knowledge beyond these standards. We aim to foster a sense of curiosity and provide opportunities for students to explore interdisciplinary connections between computing and other fields.
To achieve this, we incorporate cross-curricular projects that integrate computing with subjects like mathematics, business and media. By doing so, we help students understand how computing can be applied in various contexts, strengthening their problem-solving skills and expanding their horizons.
Furthermore, we encourage students to engage with external resources, attend workshops, participate in coding competitions, and explore online platforms that offer additional learning opportunities. By exposing them to diverse resources, we aim to broaden their perspectives and nurture their passion for computing beyond the boundaries of the traditional curriculum.
What do we cover in KS4 and how do we aspire towards KS5?
At KS4, we offer a comprehensive range of computing courses that align with the requirements of the National Curriculum and cater to the diverse interests and aspirations of our students. These courses may include options such as computer science or digital media.
Our KS4 curriculum emphasises practical application, problem-solving, and project-based learning. Students will deepen their understanding of programming languages, algorithms, data handling, system design, and legal, ethical & environmental considerations related to computing.
With regards to KS5, we aspire to provide a pathway for students who wish to pursue further studies in computing at a higher level. We ensure that our students are well-prepared for the demands of tertiary education and future careers in the field of computing by exposing them to a range of resources that help to illuminate the possible routes they could take with their computing knowledge and skills.
In conclusion, our curriculum vision for computing at Birchwood Community High School centres on demystifying IT, fostering digital expertise, and promoting responsible and informed engagement with technology. By building upon students’ prior knowledge, covering the National Curriculum, incorporating wider knowledge, and providing opportunities for progression, we strive to empower our students to become competent, confident, and ethical contributors to the digital world.
