Computer Science
Context
Computing at Fairfield equips all pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world using technology. Pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. The Computing curriculum ensures that pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through, information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.
Computing lessons also cover the principles of online safety at all key stages, we develop content to reflect the different and escalating risks that pupils face. This includes how to use technology safely, responsibly, respectfully and securely, and where to go for help and support when they have concerns about content or contact on the internet or other online technologies. Online safety is taught both in fixed units and within experiences to reflect ongoing content within the community.
Curriculum
The Computing curriculum allows pupils to learn to apply fundamental principles and concepts of computer science including logic, algorithms and data representation. Pupils will develop skills to analyse problems in computational terms and write programs to solve problems. Pupils will develop skills to evaluate technologies and be responsible creative users of information and communication technology.
We equip pupils with cultural capital within units of work developing discussions and understanding of the impact of Computing on the world. We ensure pupils have opportunities to engage in computing clubs and activities to give broader experiences, all pupils gain experience of hands-on programming and developing an understanding of new technologies.
The KS3 Computing Curriculum is mapped to the NCCE strands:
- Algorithms — Be able to comprehend, design, create, and evaluate algorithms
- Computer networks — Understand how networks can be used to retrieve and share information, and how they come with associated risks
- Computer systems — Understand what a computer is, and how its constituent parts function together as a whole
- Creating media — Select and create a range of media including text, images, sounds, and video
- Data and information — Understand how data is stored, organised, and used to represent real-world artefacts and scenarios
- Design and development — Understand the activities involved in planning, creating, and evaluating computing artefacts
- Effective use of tools — Use software tools to support computing work
- Impact of technology — Understand how individuals, systems, and society as a whole interact with computer systems
- Programming — Create software to allow computers to solve problems
- Safety and security — Understand risks when using technology, and how to protect individuals and systems
Pupils at KS4 are offered both Computer Science or Information Technology as option subjects. All pupils continue to develop and apply skills, knowledge and understanding of computing and IT concepts relevant to the needs beyond Fairfield through the IDEA Form Time Curriculum.
