Introduction to Department
The Information and Communications Technology Department is well equipped to meet the challenges presented by technology today. As part of the core curriculum, all students are taught ICT and Computing topics in Key Stage 3 and have the option of GCSE ICT and/or Computer Science in Key Stage 4.
ICT is one of the fastest moving and most innovative departments within the school and the four well-resourced teaching rooms provide advanced access and support for students. The department is equipped with both colour and black laser printers, suites of computers and a large number of Raspberry Pi’s for use in a range of exciting programming and electronics activities. In addition to this, physical computing is also introduced through the use of micro:bits.
It is the school’s policy to introduce computer-based skills into other subject lessons, wherever possible. Such cross curricular links underline and reinforce students’ ICT & digital competence, making them aware of the responsibility of using computers safely, responsibly, and within the law.
Business Studies gives students the opportunity to develop their knowledge and understanding of business in a vocational context. Students will learn about the factors involved in running small – medium sized businesses as well as corporations. The subject emphasises decision-making and develops communication, numeracy, analysis and evaluation skills. At all levels the subject makes ‘real’ connections with the world of employment and business.
Staffing & Responsibilities
Staff MemberDepartmental ResponsibilityAdditional ResponsibilityMr. P. WoodhouseHead of Department
Teacher of Business StudiesMr. C. HeardTeacher of ICTMiss. C. HinchliffeTeacher of iMedia
Teacher of ICT
Teacher ofComputer ScienceAbout KS3
At Key Stage 3, students develop computer skills and their understanding of ICT through a variety of different applications and projects including exposure to a range of computer science based activities. Students can acquire the tools and techniques of the various Microsoft Office packages through their Office 365 subscription. We aim to provide students with a broad range of skills that are vital in today’s digital world, such as App building, programming, computational thinking, and being a responsible digital citizen. They express their individuality and creativity by using multimedia software in interesting and dynamic ways such as writing games. Students are exposed to a range of tasks that enable them to touch on areas of IT, computer science and business to give them a flavour for the GCSE options for the following year.
About KS4
In Key stage 4, students are able to choose the WJEC GCSE in ICT, Computer Science, and Business. Business Studies and Computer Science are options taken for the first time as a separate subject in Year 10.
About KS5
In Key stage 5 students are able to choose the WJEC AS/A2 in ICT, Computer Science, and Business which naturally follow on and build on the learning and experiences from GCSE.
ICT
The course encourages the capacity for thinking creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically. Students will gain skills to work collaboratively and develop the ability to apply skills. They will also gain understanding of the consequences of using ICT on individuals, organisations and society and of social, legal, ethical and other considerations on the use of ICT including an awareness of emerging technologies and an appreciation of the potential impact these may have on individuals, organisations and society.
Business Studies
Learners will be expected to be familiar with current issues in business and be able to investigate, analyse and evaluate contemporary business opportunities and problems in a wide range of contexts, whilst recognising how businesses adapt to operate in a dynamic business environment.
Computer Science
Computers are widely used in all aspects of business, industry, government, education, leisure and the home. In this increasingly technological age, a study of computer science, and particularly how computers are used in the solution of a variety of problems, is not only valuable to the learners but also essential to the future well-being of the country.
A little bit about Careers involving this subject
Some potential careers involving IT and Computer Science: IT Analyst, Network Administrator, Computer and Information Research Scientist, Network Architect, Software Engineer, Cloud Services Developer, UX (user experience) Developer, Network Engineer.
Some potential careers involving Business – Self-Employed, Human Resources, Marketing, Sales, Finance Controller, Payroll Manager, Supply Chain Analyst, Buyer.
Useful Websites
Changing the world, one site at a time…
