Computing & IT

“Computing lets people express their creativity and unlock solutions, and code is Computing’s universal language. All young people, including girls, deserve to be fluent in the language of the future.“
Lucy Sanders
CEO & Founder, NCWIT

In the fast changing world of Technology, it is vitally important that our students are digitally literate, able to use ICT as tool both during and after their time at Settle College and have a good foundation of knowledge and understanding in Computer Science. We strive to help students become independent learners, effective problem solvers and creative thinkers.

Please see the document below for more information about the curriculum for the Computing Department.  If you would like more detailed documents, including information about literacy, personal development and careers, please contact the subject leader.

Computing Department Curriculum Intent

Year 7

  • To develop skills and understanding in desktop software
  • To develop knowledge on e-safety and how to protect yourself
  • To create an interactive web page using HTML and CSS
  • Develop a basic understanding of what is inside a computer and how networks work
  • Introduce students to programming through game software

Year 8:

  • Develop a basic understanding of what is inside a computer and how networks work
  • To further understanding and skills in graphic software
  • Develop skills in web design software
  • Explore Machine learning and Internet of Things

Year 9:

  • Develop further understanding of computer software architecture and networking
  • Develop understanding of programme structures using game development software
  • Develop skills and knowledge in data analysis
  • Develop programming skills to make awesome applications

cambridge nationals Creative imedia

Awarding body: OCR

This vocationally related qualification takes an engaging, practical and inspiring approach to learning and assessment. It will equip learners with a range of skills and provide opportunities to develop, in context, transferable skills such as imedia in industry, research, planning, and review, working with others and communicating creative concepts effectively. The hands on approach has strong relevance to the way young people use the technology required in creative media.

What happens in this course?

Students will undertake 2 controlled assessment units and 1 examined unit.
R093: Creative iMedia in the media industry: written paper
R094: Visual identity and digital graphics: Controlled assessment
R097: Interactive digital media: Controlled assessment

 

GCSE in Computer Science

Awarding body: Edexcel

This new, up-to-date qualification reflects the fast-changing world of Computer Science. You will develop the computational skills you need for an exciting digital future beyond the classroom.  

What happens in this course?

This is assessed through two exams (each worth 50%)  taken at the end of the course.  

paper 1: Paper 1 Principles of Computer Science. Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes

paper 2:  Application of Computational Thinking Practical onscreen examination: 2 hours

Staff Names and Roles
Mrs E Partridge – Subject Leader Computing and IT, Subject Lead for DT

 

A-Level Computer Science

Awarding Body: AQA

Course Requirements

Grade 6 or above in Mathematics.
Grade 6 or above in Computer Science

Course Description

Over two years, students will build a deep understanding of Computer Science, including programming, algorithms, and systems architecture. The course provides practical problem-solving opportunities while also covering theoretical foundations of computing.
We will cover the following key areas:

Paper 1: Programming & Algorithms (Exam)
Covers coding in Python and computational thinking.

Paper 2: Theory of Computation (Exam)
Includes topics such as databases, networks, security, and ethical/legal concerns.

Non-Exam Assessment (Coursework)
A substantial programming project that allows students to apply their skills to real-world problems.

How will I be assessed?

Students will be assessed through two external exams, each covering different aspects of Computer Science. The non-exam assessment (NEA) will be an independently developed coding project is assessed internally then externally moderated. 

Progression

A-Level Computer Science provides a strong foundation for further studies and careers in technology, engineering, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. Many students go on to study Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, or related fields at university, while others pursue apprenticeships in programming, cybersecurity, or IT systems management.