Computing

Our Key Stage 3 curriculum follows a spiral approach, building knowledge and skills throughout Years 7, 8 and 9. Students develop their programming abilities alongside computer systems knowledge, digital creativity, online safety and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.

Year 7 – Foundations

Students develop essential ICT skills before progressing into computational thinking and programming during the Autumn term.

• Computer Basics: School systems, file management, Microsoft Teams, email, online safety and digital independence.
• Computational Thinking: Decomposition, abstraction, pattern recognition and algorithms.
• Introduction to Programming: Block-based programming, sequencing, selection, iteration and debugging.
• Computer Systems and Networks: Hardware, software, CPU, memory, storage, networking and introductory binary.
• Spreadsheets and Digital Skills: Formulas, functions, charts, data handling and digital communication.
• Physical Computing, Digital Media and AI: Micro, sensors, Canva, creative design and an introduction to artificial intelligence.

Year 8 – Development

Students build on their Year 7 knowledge, developing greater independence in programming and practical digital skills.

• Python Turtle: Coordinates, variables, selection, iteration and visual programming.
• Text-Based Python: Inputs, outputs, variables, data types, selection, loops and debugging.
• Binary and Computer Systems: Binary arithmetic, hexadecimal, Boolean logic and data representation.
• Web Development: HTML, CSS, website design, navigation and accessibility.
• Artificial Intelligence and Data: Machine learning, training data, pattern recognition, predictions and AI bias.
• App Development and Digital Design: Interactive applications, user interfaces, event-driven programming and evaluation.

Year 9 – Application

Students apply their knowledge through more advanced programming, theoretical concepts and real-world digital projects, providing a foundation for GCSE Computer Science.

• Python Programming: Advanced selection, iteration, lists, functions, testing and independent problem-solving.
• Advanced Algorithms: Linear and binary searches, bubble sort, pseudocode and trace tables.
• Networks and Cybersecurity: Network protocols, malware, phishing, encryption and security measures.
• Theme Park Enterprise Project: Financial modelling, spreadsheets, branding, digital design, programming and website creation.
• Systems Architecture and Data Representation: CPU operation, memory, storage, binary and digital representations of images and sound.
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Training AI models, classification, accuracy, bias, ethics and evaluation.

Curriculum Progression

Our curriculum ensures that students continually develop and apply their knowledge.

• Programming: Year 7 introduces coding fundamentals, Year 8 develops Python programming, and Year 9 focuses on advanced algorithms and independent solutions.
• Computer Science: Students progress from understanding basic hardware and binary to computer architecture, data representation, networks and cybersecurity.
• ICT Skills: Students move from essential digital skills and spreadsheets to web development, app creation and integrated enterprise projects.
• Artificial Intelligence: Students progress from recognising everyday AI to understanding machine learning and evaluating AI-powered systems.
• Digital Responsibility: Online safety, data protection, ethical considerations and responsible technology use are embedded throughout KS3.

Enrichment and Wider Opportunities

Coding Club

Coding Club runs every Wednesday lunchtime, 12:15pm–12:55pm, in ICT2.

Students can develop their programming skills, explore creative projects and tackle coding challenges in a supportive environment. All abilities are welcome.

Students are also encouraged to participate in computational thinking challenges and independent digital learning opportunities.

Useful Learning and Revision Resources

iDEA – The Inspiring Digital Enterprise Award

Develop digital, enterprise and employability skills, earn badges and work towards internationally recognised awards.

iDEA – Digital Skills and Awards

Quizlet – Revision and Learning Tools

Interactive flashcards and revision activities to reinforce Computer Science knowledge.

Quizlet – Learning Tools and Flashcards

UK Bebras – Computational Thinking Challenge

Engaging challenges that develop logical reasoning, computational thinking and problem-solving.

UK Bebras – Computational Thinking Challenges