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Computer Science

The Computer Science curriculum at Ernest Bevin Academy equips students with the knowledge, understanding, and skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world. Our curriculum embraces both the theoretical and practical aspects of computing, developing students' computational thinking skills and their ability to solve problems through programming and algorithm design.

We aim to inspire students to become active creators of digital technology rather than just passive consumers, preparing them for further study and careers in the rapidly evolving technology sector while ensuring they understand the ethical implications of digital technologies.

Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)

Year 7

Autumn Term

  • Digital literacy and online safety
  • Computer systems: hardware and software
  • Binary representation: introduction to binary numbers

Spring Term

  • Introduction to programming with Scratch
  • Algorithms: sequence, selection, iteration
  • Simple game development

Summer Term

  • Web development: HTML and CSS basics
  • Digital media creation and editing
  • Project: Personal digital portfolio

Year 8

Autumn Term

  • Networks and internet
  • Cybersecurity: threats and prevention
  • Binary: Data representation (text and images)

Spring Term

  • Introduction to Python programming
  • Programming constructs: variables, selection, iteration
  • Computational thinking and problem-solving

Summer Term

  • Database fundamentals
  • Advanced web development
  • Project: Data-driven website

Year 9

Autumn Term

  • Computer logic and Boolean algebra
  • Binary operations and hexadecimal
  • System architecture: CPU, memory, storage

Spring Term

  • Python programming: functions and procedures
  • Data structures: lists and dictionaries
  • Algorithms: searching and sorting

Summer Term

  • Object-oriented programming concepts
  • Ethics, legal and environmental impacts
  • GCSE preparation: Programming project

Key Stage 4 (Years 10-11)

At Key Stage 4, students follow the OCR GCSE Computer Science (J277) specification, which provides a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of computer science and develops practical programming skills.

GCSE Computer Science Content

Component 01: Computer Systems (50%)

  • Systems architecture
  • Memory and storage
  • Computer networks, connections and protocols
  • Network security
  • System software
  • Ethical, legal, cultural and environmental impacts

Component 02: Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming (50%)

  • Algorithms
  • Programming fundamentals
  • Producing robust programs
  • Boolean logic
  • Programming languages and Integrated Development Environments
  • Data representation

Programming Project

Although the programming project no longer contributes to the final grade, it remains an essential part of the course, allowing students to develop their practical programming skills in a substantive project. Students work on:

  • Analysis of a problem and design of a solution
  • Development of the solution using Python
  • Testing and evaluation of the solution
  • Documentation of the development process

Assessment

Both components are assessed through written examinations (1 hour 30 minutes each), with a mixture of multiple choice, short answer, and longer answer questions. The exam for Component 02 includes questions that require students to read and interpret pseudocode and write program code.

Additional Computing Opportunities

Coding Club

Our weekly Coding Club allows students to develop their programming skills beyond the curriculum, work on personal projects, and collaborate with like-minded peers. The club explores various programming languages and environments, including Python, JavaScript, and app development.

Competitions

Students are encouraged to participate in national computing competitions such as the Bebras Computational Thinking Challenge, CyberFirst Girls Competition, and the British Informatics Olympiad, which challenge and extend their skills.

Industry Links

We maintain strong links with technology companies and universities, organizing talks from industry professionals, visits to tech companies, and participation in events like the BETT Show to provide insights into careers in computing.

Digital Leaders

Our Digital Leaders program enables selected students to take on leadership roles in supporting the school's computing infrastructure, helping peers with technical issues, and contributing to the development of the school's digital strategy.

How Parents Can Help

  • Encourage problem-solving and logical thinking skills
  • Support safe and responsible use of technology at home
  • Explore free coding resources like Code.org, Codecademy, and Raspberry Pi projects
  • Discuss current technology news and developments
  • Consider providing access to a computer for programming practice
  • Visit computing and technology museums and exhibitions
  • Support revision for theory components using recommended online resources

Useful Resources

Downloadable Resources