Information and Communication Technology

We recognise that ICT is a subject in its own right, as well as an important tool for teaching and learning across the curriculum. We consider ICT to be a creative as well as a functional subject and offer opportunities for pupils to develop their skills in creative ICT at both Key Stages.

The department is well equipped with 4 ICT suites. Interactive whiteboards are available in 2 of the four ICT suites and data projectors are used in the other two rooms. Other resources include colour laser printers, laptops, digital cameras, scanners, earphones, microphones.

The school’s intranet allows teachers, pupils and parents to access materials to support learning in and out of school. We also make our courses available online via our Moodle learning environment. This presents a range of multimedia resources to enable pupils to learn independently at their own pace.

Department Aims:

  1. To develop, maintain and stimulate pupils' curiosity, interest and enjoyment in ICT.
  2. To enable pupils to develop appropriate ICT skills, capabilities, and an understanding of ICT concepts, principles, and processes.
  3. To enable all students to have access to ICT when they need it and to experience success in their work.
  4. To allow students to develop transferable skills in and informed opinions about their use of ICT.
  5. To promote an awareness of the impact of ICT in society and to encourage responsible and safe use of the internet and other technologies.

ICT Curriculum

At Key Stage 3 pupils follow units based on the QCA scheme of work. They develop ICT skills in presentation, WP, DTP, database, control and spreadsheet software. Pupils also learn to use ICT creatively for web design, graphics, animation, digital video, audio and gamemaking.

At Key Stage 4 all pupils follow a level 1 or 2 course leading to a recognised ICT qualification. Pupils can also opt for:

GCSE ICT

This course incorporates both a final exam and coursework. The coursework includes a range of practical coursework tasks which intergrate DTP, spreadsheet, database, presentation and web design software.

Extra curricular activities

The department runs a Computer Club for Girls and a Gamemaking club in the summer term. ICT rooms are open at lunchtimes and after school throughout the week. Special events have included activities in gamemaking, stop-frame animation and digital photography. The department also enters ICT competitions (TES Newsday, Web Design Challenge, Google Doodle).

 

Useful Links

 

Opens external link in new windowhttp://www.freesoftwareforstudents.org.uk