Computer Science & Learning Lab

Curriculum Journey

Year 7 students learn about the following:

E-Safety
Logo Programming
Microbit
Computer Components
Introduction to Binary
Spreadsheets

Year 8 students will learn about the following:

Using Scratch
Python Programming
Computer Components
Binary and Logic
PowerPoint Mazes
Spreadsheets

Year 9 students will learn about the following:

Computer Systems
Python Pygame
Photoshop and 2D Design

Teaching Hours:

Years 7 & 8 - 2 hours per fortnight

Year 9 - 1 hour per fortnight

Exam Board - Edexcel

What is the course?

You will follow the Edexcel GCSE Computer Science Course.

What will I be taught?

You will be taught the basics of Computer Science, including binary numbers and how computers work. The course will help you to develop an understanding of important concepts such as algorithms and networking and you will research key legal, ethical, moral and social developments in the evolution of computing, while learning programming skills to solve a range of problems and scenarios.

Which units will I study?

• Component 1: Principles of Computer Science (Written Examination – 1 hour 30 minutes)
• Component 2: Application of Computational Thinking (Onscreen examination – 2 hours)

Programming is the main practical element and this is started in the first week of the course, continuing throughout the 2 years. The programming skills you develop are relevant to all components, with application of programming for the controlled assessment and programming theory applied in the written examinations.

What skills will I learn?

Through this study of computer programming, the course will help you to develop critical thinking, analysis and problem-solving skills. For many, it will be an interesting way to develop these skills which can be transferred to other subjects. You will not only learn programming skills, but get a real insight into how computers work.

What would be expected of me?

You will be expected to complete all tasks set within lessons and should be active in practising programming techniques at home, programming regularly in your own time.

Is there coursework involved in this course?
This subject does not have a coursework element, as it is assessed via the two set examinations.

How will I be assessed?

The qualification has a straightforward structure with six comprehensive topic areas, assessed through two externally examined papers (50% for each paper). One of these is a written paper focused on computational thinking, data, computers, networks, and issues and impact of computing in the world today. The other is a practical onscreen assessment, which focuses on the ability to analyse and solve problems by designing, writing, testing and refining programs. There is no coursework component to this qualification.

What courses or employment can I progress to at the end of the course?

Students can progress from this qualification to:

• Further studies, for example A Levels, a BTEC in Computer Science
• Employment, where further training may be available.

Teaching Hours: 5 hours per fortnight

To extend learning beyond the classroom, you should consider doing some of the following tasks:

• Use online platforms such as Codecademy, LeetCode, or freeCodeCamp to help you learn new skills, practice coding and work on coding at your own pace.
• Explore using artificial intelligence platforms such as ChatGPT which allow you to learn from the platforms.
• Expand your learning through online resources such as YouTube to develop your knowledge of programming languages like Python, build websites using HTML or develop video game programming using platforms like Unity.
• Setup your own online presence such as a YouTube channel where you can share coding tutorials or carry out tech reviews.

You can also extend your learning through reading. Here are some suggestions to get you started:

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