Pupils take Computing to gain experience in the use of Python programming, HTML and CSS web languages, as well as the fundamentals of computing such as binary, logic circuits and algorithm structures.
In addition to the content of the Year 9 course, pupils in Fast Track develop their IT skills, effectively using Microsoft Office programmes, and researching how these are used in the “real world,” for example, using Excel for budgeting.
The content of the Computer Science IGCSE is the same for both the Two Year and One Year GCSE courses. Pupils work towards IGCSE Computer Science (0984) from Cambridge Assessment International Education.
The course spans topics from binary data through to security and ethics. Pupils also solve a range of practical problems using their coding knowledge. For their examination, pupils are given a pre-released information sheet containing a design brief. Leading up to the exam, pupils break down the tasks into sequences (algorithms) in order to solve each problem. Their final program should be fully functioning and solve the tasks.
Pupils have the opportunity to take part in the Raspberry Pi club, which develops their coding and technological skills and contributes to whole School events.