Computer Science and ICT

Computer Science is rapidly changing every aspect of the world we all live in.

“The best way to predict the future is to implement it.”

David Heinemeier Hansson

When our students leave university and look for their first job, many of them will be applying for roles that do not yet exist. A rounded education should help prepare them for this constantly evolving world. Studying Computer Science teaches students a range of invaluable life skills such as reasoning, logical thinking, problem solving, precision and resourcefulness.

In the Lower School, the Computing curriculum is designed to enable students to develop computational thinking skills and become competent digital users. Students study a range of topics including programming, spreadsheets, binary, hexadecimal, computer hardware and networks.

In the Upper School, Computer Science is a popular GCSE option subject. We offer two courses:

• Computer Science which is engaging and practical, encouraging creativity and problem solving. Students develop their understanding and application of the core concepts in computer science while also analysing problems in computational terms and devising creative solutions by designing, writing, testing and evaluating programs.

• Information and Communication Technology (ICT) develops lifelong skills which will be useful in students’ work across the curriculum and preparing them for future employment. They will develop understanding of the implications of technology in society, including social, economic and ethical uses and awareness of the ways ICT can help in home, learning and work environments. The syllabus combines theoretical and practical studies focusing on the ability to use common software applications to solve problems, including word processors, spreadsheets, databases, interactive presentation software, web browsers and website design. Students analyse, design, implement, test and evaluate ICT systems, ensuring that they are fit for purpose.

At Sixth Form we offer Computer Science at A Level covering the core academic principles of computer science. Classroom learning is transferred into creating real-world systems through an independent programming project. Our A Level will develop both the students’ technical understanding and their ability to analyse and solve problems using computational thinking.  We also offer the Cyber EPQ by CIISec, which is an unique Level 3 Cyber Security qualification, accredited by City & Guilds that has been developed to provide a starting point for anyone considering a career in Cyber Security.

We are a small friendly department with a strong emphasis on offering a range of enrichment opportunities which include:

• Participation in a wide variety of national challenges and competitions e.g. the UK Bebras Computing Challenge, the TCS Oxford Computing Challenge, Alan Turing Cryptography competition, , VEX IQ Robotics and the British Algorithmics Olympiad.
• Trips to the Wired Next Generation conference, National Museum of Computing, Bletchley Park and the Computing LIVE conference.
• Weekly clubs including Creative Coders and RGS Robotics, where students have the opportunity to complete the BCS Level 1 Robotics Award.

Please take a look at the Sixth Form pages for details of our A Level Computer Science course