Statement of Intent

As ICT underpins today’s modern lifestyle, it is essential that all students gain the confidence and ability that they need to use ICT effectively. We will provide every student with the knowledge and skills to use the internet safely, not by limiting their use of the internet, but by teaching sensible use of it.

During Years 7-9, we will give all students opportunities to choose when to use ICT and which ICT to use for given tasks and embed the fundamental knowledge to be able to choose and successfully complete a Computer Science or ICT based qualification in Years 10 and 11. Computer Science lessons are engaging and practical, encouraging creativity and problem solving and students develop their understanding and application of the core concepts by analysing problems in computational terms and devise creative solutions by designing, writing, testing and evaluating programs.

We will keep pace with educational developments in ICT and have a commitment to teachers having the necessary tools to do their jobs effectively facilitating creative learning experiences for each individual student. The use of ICT will enhance and extend children’s learning across the whole curriculum supporting the school’s catholic ethos. All young people - whether they have access to technology at home or not - will be able to use ICT with confidence and competence in all aspects of their learning experience which they can then take advantage of in further education and in their working careers. 

Purpose

In Years 7-9 students study three themes; ‘Information and Communications Technology’, ‘Computer Science’ and ‘E-Safety’. Students visit these themes several times over the course of the three years, securing and then building upon knowledge until they have reached a point whereby they understand the difference between ICT and Computer Science and are able to make an informed decision about which course to choose at Key Stage 4.

Theme 1: ICT: In our ICT lessons we offer key stage three pupils basic “Digital Literacy” topics to help them better understand the Microsoft Office Suite and the Internet. We cover topics such as Spreadsheets, Databases, Web Site design and building, Digital Graphics and Animation. We aim to equip students with the ability to analyse problems and appreciate how ICT can be used help solve them.

Theme 2: Computer Science: In Years 7-9 students will learn about the principles of information and computation, how computer systems work, and how to use information technology to create their own programs and systems. The curriculum aims to cover key areas such as Programming, Data Representation, Hardware, Communication and Networks. We will use software such as Python, Microbits, Scratch, Microsoft Access and the Microsoft Office suite to deliver these topics.

Theme 3: E-Safety: Students will develop an understanding of how to target their ICT products at a particular audience. They will be taught how to use technology safely, responsibly and securely; this will include protecting their online identity and privacy, recognising inappropriate content and conduct and how to raise any concerns they may have.

Cultural Capital

In Computing, we encourage the sensible use of digital technology in the classroom and homework situations given that students are currently living in a digital world. We encourage an awareness and appreciation of the digital divide and develop an awareness of differing cultural and spiritual or religious views towards the use of digital technology. We encourage good etiquette when using digital technology including mobile devices and with due regard to e-safety. Students also explore moral issues around the use of digital technology - For example, copyright and plagiarism.