ICT

our vision

At Key Stage 3, our Computing and Media curriculum is designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and confidence in the digital world. Through engaging, hands-on learning, students develop essential skills in computational thinking, digital literacy, and media production. We aim to build a strong foundation that empowers students to understand how technology shapes our lives and how they can shape technology in return.

Our curriculum blends core computing principles—such as programming, data representation, and cybersecurity—with creative media projects that explore digital storytelling, video editing, and graphic design. This dual approach ensures students not only become competent users of technology but also thoughtful creators and problem-solvers.

As students’ progress through KS3, they are introduced to the key concepts and tools that underpin our GCSE pathways in Computer Science and Creative iMedia. By the end of Year 9, students are well-equipped to make informed choices about their future studies, having experienced both the logical and creative aspects of digital learning.

We believe that Computing and Media education is not just about preparing for exams - it's about preparing for life in a connected, digital future.

curriculum review: design technology

year 7
Introduction to the course
Computing Fundamentals	Year 7 Computer Fundamentals introduces students to the basics of how computers work, including the difference between hardware and software, how to stay safe online, how computers use logic and search techniques, and how devices connect through networks.
Networks	Computer Networks introduces students to how computers connect and communicate, covering the basics of the internet, Wi-Fi, and local networks, and how data is shared between devices.

 

year 8
Introduction to the course
Introduction to Python Programming	Introduction to Python Programming teaches students the basics of coding using Python, including writing simple programs, using variables and loops, and understanding how code is structured and executed.
Media: Vector Graphics	Vector Graphics introduces students to creating and editing digital images using shapes and paths, focusing on precision, scalability, and design tools like layering and grouping.

 

year 9
Introduction to the course
Advanced Python Programming	Advanced Python Programming deepens students' coding skills by introducing key concepts such as functions, loops with conditions, and error handling. Students also explore practical applications like building simple text-based programs to reinforce problem-solving and logical thinking. Concepts that feed into GCSE Computer Science.
Media: interactive Digital Media Products	Interactive Digital Media Products introduces students to video creation using Clipchamp. They plan, record, and edit content with transitions, effects, and audio. Example projects include promotional videos, short documentaries, tutorial clips, and creative storytelling pieces. Concepts that feed into GCSE iMedia.

gcse computer science/imedia

At Key stage 4 learners can choose to learn up to two of the following qualifications (one of which is an early entry starting in year 9):

• GCSE OCR Computer Science
• OCR Cambridge National level 2 Certificate in iMedia

gcse ocr computer science (9-1) - j277

GCSE Computer Science is a stimulating and practical course that encourages students to think creatively, analytically, and logically. It provides a strong foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of computing, preparing learners for further study and careers in technology and STEM fields.

Students will explore how computer systems work, how data is processed and stored, and how to design and write programs. The course promotes computational thinking and problem-solving through engaging tasks and real-world scenarios.

COURSE CONTENT - COMPONENT 1: Computer Systems (Written Exam - 50%)

Students study the inner workings of computer systems, including:

• System Architecture – CPU, memory, and input/output devices
• Memory & Storage – RAM, ROM, secondary storage, binary and hexadecimal
• Networks & Protocols – LAN/WAN, TCP/IP, DNS, cloud storage
• Cybersecurity – Threats, prevention methods, encryption
• System Software – Operating systems and utility software
• Ethical, Legal, Cultural & Environmental Issues – Impact of technology on society

COURSE CONTENT - COMPONENT 2: Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming (Written Exam – 50%)

Students develop practical programming skills and computational thinking:

• Algorithms – Flowcharts, pseudocode, search and sort techniques
• Programming Fundamentals – Variables, loops, functions, arrays, file handling
• Producing Robust Programs – Testing, debugging, validation
• Boolean Logic – Logic gates and truth tables
• Programming Languages & IDEs – High-level vs low-level languages

Assessment Structure

• J277/01 – Computer Systems: 1 hour 30 minutes, 80 marks
• J277/02 – Computational Thinking & Programming: 1 hour 30 minutes, 80 marks

Both papers are externally assessed and equally weighted (50% each).

Skills Developed

• Logical and computational thinking
• Programming in Python
• Problem-solving and algorithm design
• Understanding of digital systems and cybersecurity
• Awareness of the societal impact of technology

GCSE CREATIVE IMEDIA LEVEL 1/LEVEL 2 - J834

Creative iMedia is a dynamic and engaging course designed to introduce students to the world of digital media production. It blends creative design with technical skills, preparing learners for further study and careers in the media, marketing, and design industries.

Students will explore how media products are planned, created, and evaluated, gaining hands-on experience with industry-standard software and tools. The course encourages innovation, collaboration, and critical thinking through practical projects and real-world scenarios.

Course Structure

The qualification is split into three key units:

R093 – Creative iMedia in the Media Industry	A written exam worth 40% of the final grade. Students learn about media sectors, job roles, client requirements, audience demographics, and distribution platforms.
R094 – Visual Identity and Digital Graphics	A coursework unit worth 25%. Students develop visual identities and create digital graphics using image editing software, responding to a client brief.
R097 – Interactive Digital Media	A coursework unit worth 35%. Students plan, create, and review interactive digital media products such as websites or apps, demonstrating technical and creative skills.

Assessment

• 60% coursework (internally assessed and externally moderated)
• 40% written exam (externally assessed)

Grades awarded range from Level 1 Pass to Level 2 Distinction*.

Skills Developed

• Graphic design and image editing
• Website and interactive media creation
• Pre-production planning and documentation
• Understanding of media audiences and client needs
• Project management and review techniques