In our ever changing world, Computer Science, Digital Literacy and Information Technology (collectively known as ‘Computing’) is a core skill for everything that we do. We are in the business of preparing our students for jobs which may not even have been invented yet, so embedding core digital skills through our curriculum is vital.
Within the department, we have high expectations of all students and rely on their total engagement in the varied activities that we provide. We will, of course, provide help and support where required both inside and outside lesson time.
Mr L Marling (l.marling@eatonbank.org)
Head of Maths and Computing Faculty
Mr M Roberts (m.roberts@eatonbank.org)
Specialist Teacher of Computer Science
Key Stage 3
The aims of the Computing department at Key Stage 3 are:
Year 7
Year 8
Year 9
Key Stage 3 Assessment
Each unit will end a summative assessment which will provide immediate feedback to the students on their attainment. This will typically be a quiz with multiple choice and short answers to be completed online using Microsoft Forms.
Extra-Curricular Opportunities
The department will offer the following extracurricular activities at Key Stage 3 …
How you can help to support their son’s / daughter’s learning
One of the key aims of Key Stage 3 Computing is to provide your son / daughter with an understanding of Computer Science, Digital Literacy and Information Technology, equip them with some of the core skills necessary to allow them to be successful in the digital world and prepare them for further study beyond the key stage.
If you have any queries, please contact Mr M Roberts(m.roberts@eatonbank.org)
If you have any queries, please contact Mr L Marling (l.marling@eatonbank.org)
Key Stage 4 – Edexcel GCSE Computer Science, 1CP2
A modern course for a modern world
This is a course that has real relevance in our modern world. While learners will no doubt already have some knowledge of computers and related areas, the course will give them an in-depth understanding of how computer technology actually works and a look at what goes on “behind the screens”. As part of this, they will investigate computer programming, which many learners find interesting.
The fun of computing
Through this study of computer programming, the course will help learners develop critical / computational thinking, analysis and problem solving skills. For many, it will be a fun and interesting way to develop these skills, which can be transferred to other subjects and even applied in day-to-day life. In this way, the course will stimulate interest and engagement with technology and technology-related careers.
Looking to the future
In fact, information technologies continue to have a growing importance. This means there will be a bigger demand for professionals who are qualified in this area. If learners want to go on to higher study and employment in the field of Computer Science, they will find that this course provides a superb stepping stone. Learners who have taken a Computing GCSE and who then progress to study the subject at A Level or university will have a sound underpinning knowledge of this subject area.
Areas studied
The GCSE Computer Science curriculum at Eaton Bank Academy covers the following main areas of study …
Key Stage 4 Assessment
Each of the modules of study in the course is assessed through a series of multiple-choice quizzes and written assessments at, and shortly after, the end of study of topic itself. Each assessment includes questions from previous areas of study to encourage revision and there are summary assessments at the end of each term. During November and March students will sit mock examinations which cover the content studied to date and will be in the style of the GCSE assessment papers.
Homework activities will be set when regularly and may include completing tasks not completed in lesson, research tasks and further study or preparing for assessments.
Students are encouraged to practice programming with Python at home regularly in their own time or when there is no other homework set.
During Year 11, students will also be issued with bespoke revision packs and have to opportunity to purchase third party revision guides to help them prepare for the examinations.
The 2020 Edexcel GCSE is assessed through two examinations: one a paper-based exam: the other a computer-based programming exam.
Paper 1: Principles of Computer Science [1CP2/01] (75 Marks / 1 hour and 30 minutes)
Content overview…
Paper 2: Application of Computational Thinking [1CP2/02] (75 Marks / 2 hours)
Content overview…
Extra Curricular Opportunities
The department will offer the following extra-curricular opportunities at Key Stage 4 …
If you have any queries, please contact Mr M Roberts (m.roberts@eatonbank.org)