LANCASTER HIGH SCHOOL
Computer science, digital media and information technology.
Computing
Computing and ICT gives pupils opportunities to develop the knowledge, creativity and practical skills needed to understand technology and use it productively. Pupils learn to solve problems, create digital content and make safe, responsible choices online.
“Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited, whereas imagination embraces the entire world, stimulating progress, giving birth to evolution.”
Albert Einstein
Our intent
Computing and ICT at Lancaster High School is designed to allow opportunities for all pupils to develop their capability, creativity and knowledge in computer science, digital media and information technology regardless of their starting point. They will develop and apply their analytic, problem-solving, design, and computational thinking skills. By understanding how changes in technology affect safety, including new ways to protect their online privacy and identity they will be able to recognise inappropriate content, contact and conduct, and know how to report concerns. They will become creators as well as users of digital content.
The Key Stage 3 programme of study will allow pupils to develop their ICT and Computing skills, develop their problem solving skills and introduce them to the concept of project work. They will develop an understanding of the skills and knowledge needed to work to a client brief, use a range of different software applications, meet deadlines, be organised and be able to reflect and evaluate on their work.
The Key Stage 4 iMedia course has been chosen to allow pupils to understand how computers work, how to use them in a productive way but also to enable them to become creators as well as users of software. This qualification will prepare pupils both for the world of work, support them in other subjects of study, and open up pathways to Level 3 courses and further study at colleges and universities.
Subject staff
| Name | Role | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Mr Rubery | Head of Department | Contact |
| Miss Ainsworth | Classroom Teacher | Contact |
Computing curriculum roadmap
Explore the learning journey from Year 7 through to Year 11. The roadmap provides an overview of how pupils' knowledge and skills develop across the curriculum.
Key Stage 3 – Years 7, 8 & 9
Pupils build their confidence with computers, develop their problem-solving skills and learn to create and evaluate digital projects. The overview below shows the topics taught in each year.
KEY STAGE 4 · YEARS 10 & 11
Cambridge Nationals Level 2 Certificate in Creative iMedia
Creative iMedia develops pupils' understanding of digital media and gives them opportunities to create digital products, work to a client brief and apply practical creative skills.
Assessment
R093 · Creative iMedia in the media industry
Assessment: Exam · 1 hour 30 minutes
R094 · Visual identity and digital graphics
Assessment: Coursework portfolio
R099 · Digital games
Assessment: Coursework portfolio
KEY STAGE 4 · YEARS 10 & 11
OCR GCSE (9–1) Computer Science (J277)
The course develops pupils' understanding of how computer systems work, how data is represented and communicated, and how computers can be used to solve problems. Pupils also develop practical programming skills, including designing, writing, testing and refining programs. The qualification consists of two equally weighted written examinations.
OCR specification details (PDF)
Assessment
J277/01 · Computer Systems
Written exam: 1 hour 30 minutes · 50% of the qualification
J277/02 · Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming
Written exam: 1 hour 30 minutes · 50% of the qualification
What pupils study
J277/01 – Computer Systems: Systems architecture, memory and storage, computer networks and protocols, network security, systems software, and the ethical, legal, cultural and environmental impacts of digital technology.
J277/02 – Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming: Computational thinking, designing and analysing algorithms, programming fundamentals, producing robust programs, Boolean logic, and programming languages and Integrated Development Environments (IDEs). Pupils are also given opportunities throughout the course to develop practical programming skills using a high-level programming language.
How parents and carers can help at KS4
Pupils would benefit from a computer of their own if studying this course. This is not essential, however, as computers are available at school. Talk to pupils about what they have learnt, allow structured time and access to computers at home, and allow pupils to install software at home. Encourage pupils to be curious, brave and optimistic about how computers and technology can be used in positive and productive ways.
Additional materials to support study and revision
These resources can support pupils with their learning and provide opportunities to practise skills outside lessons.
A resource for pupils studying game development using Construct 2.
Computing revision and study materials.
A Python editor for practising programming and developing coding skills.
Lancaster High School • Computing
