Computing

Introduction

Computing at Isleworth & Syon aims to give pupils the capability to participate and engage in modern society. The increasing use of technology in all aspects of society makes confident, creative and productive use of computers an essential skill for life. Computing capability encompasses not only the mastery of technical skills and techniques, but also the understanding to apply these skills purposefully, safely and responsibly in learning, everyday life and employment. At Isleworth & Syon, we aim to give pupils the skills and understanding needed to use technology effectively, every day and in the world of work ahead.

KS3

Summary

A high-quality computing education equips pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Computing has deep links with mathematics, science, and design and technology, and provides insights into both natural and artificial systems. The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Building on this knowledge and understanding, pupils are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Computing also ensures that pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through, information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world. At Key Stage 3, pupils have one Computing lesson per week in year 7 and two in Years 8 and 9.

Curriculum Content

Year 7

Curriculum

Digital Literacy
This unit covers the basic skills needed to use computers and common office software confidently and effectively. Students will learn how to use key computer functions, manage files and folders, and work with basic office packages. They will develop their skills in using email appropriately, including writing, replying to and sending emails with attachments. Students will also learn how to use spreadsheets, including entering data and using simple formulas and functions, as well as formatting Word documents by changing fonts, headings, spacing, alignment and page layout. The unit will help students develop useful digital skills that they can apply in their schoolwork.

Online Safety
This unit covers understanding how to stay safe and responsible when using the internet and digital technologies. Students will learn about the importance of protecting personal information, using strong passwords, recognising potential online risks, and making safe choices when communicating and sharing content online. They will also explore the consequences of unsafe online behaviour and how their actions can affect themselves and others. The unit will introduce students to the concept of “fake news”, helping them understand how to identify misleading or unreliable information online and develop the skills needed to check whether online information is trustworthy.

Computing Theory
This unit covers how computers communicate with each other and introduces students to the hardware and software that make computer systems and networks work. Students will learn about the different components of a computer and understand how hardware and software work together to allow devices to communicate. They will also develop their understanding of binary, including how to convert binary numbers into decimal numbers. The unit will introduce students to network protocols and how they are used to control and organise communication between devices across a network, helping students understand how information is transferred from one computer to another.

Microbit Programming
This unit covers programming with the Microbit using block-based programming. Students will learn how to create simple programs that allow the Microbit to respond to inputs and complete specific tasks. They will develop their understanding of key programming concepts, including variables, iteration and selection, and learn how these can be used to control the behaviour of a program. Through practical activities, students will design, create, test and improve their programs, developing their problem-solving and computational thinking skills while programming the Microbit to complete a specific task.

Python Turtle
This unit covers Python Turtle programming and introduces students to text-based programming. Students will build on the programming skills developed in the previous unit and begin applying similar concepts using Python code. They will learn how to write simple commands to control the Turtle, create shapes and patterns, and develop programs to complete specific tasks. Students will also develop their understanding of sequencing, variables, selection and iteration while learning how to identify and correct errors in their code. Through practical activities, students will build confidence in writing, testing and improving Python programs.

Networks
This unit covers how computer networks are connected and how devices communicate and share information across a network. Students will learn about different network topologies and understand their purpose, including how the arrangement of devices can affect the way a network operates. The unit will also introduce students to network security and the importance of protecting networks, devices and data from potential threats. Students will explore common security measures and develop an understanding of why safe and secure networks are important in schools, homes and other organisations.

Assessment

All units in Year 7 will be assessed through an end-of-topic test and homework activities.

Homework

Homework is set on Insight / Parent Portal by class teachers fortnightly.

Further Resources

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 7 curriculum.

BBC Bitesize: E-Safety – excellent learning resources from the BBC.
SAM Learning - an online learning platform that provides computing students with interactive activities, and assessments to reinforce their understanding of key computing concepts.

Year 8

Curriculum

HTML
This unit covers how web pages are created using HTML and formatted using CSS. Students will develop their understanding of the basic structure and components of a website, learning how HTML is used to add and organise content such as headings, paragraphs, images, links and lists. They will also learn how CSS can be used to style and format web pages, including colours, fonts, layouts and backgrounds. Through practical activities, students will develop their coding skills and apply their knowledge to design and create their own school website, bringing together the different elements they have learned throughout the unit.

Computing Theory
This unit covers the different components of a computer and how they work together to allow a computer system to function effectively. Students will develop their understanding of key hardware components, including the CPU, memory, storage and input and output devices, and explore the role each component plays within a computer. Students will also build their skills in converting between binary and decimal numbers and learn how to perform two-level binary addition. The unit will introduce students to how digital images and sound are represented and stored, including the mathematical calculations used to work out image and sound file sizes. Through practical activities, students will develop their problem-solving, mathematical and computational thinking skills.

Graphics Editing
This unit covers digital images and how they can be created, edited and manipulated using appropriate software. Students will develop their skills in editing images to improve their appearance and make them suitable for a particular purpose or audience. They will explore techniques such as cropping, resizing, adjusting colours and brightness, applying effects, and combining different elements to create a refined final image. Students will also learn how to make appropriate design choices and use image-editing tools effectively to produce professional and purposeful digital images.

Data Handling with Spreadsheets
This unit covers the use of spreadsheets and builds on students’ digital literacy skills, developing their confidence and ability to use spreadsheets effectively. Students will learn how to use both simple and more complex functions to organise, calculate and analyse information, as well as create and interpret spreadsheet models to solve problems. They will develop a broad understanding of how spreadsheets can be used to process and present data, allowing them to apply their knowledge to real-world situations. Students will also develop their ability to analyse and evaluate information.

Intro to Python
This unit covers an introduction to Python programming and develops students’ understanding of text-based programming. Students will learn the difference between block-based programming and text-based programming, building on the programming concepts they have already encountered. They will develop their ability to read, understand and modify existing Python code, using a range of real-world scenarios to apply their knowledge. Students will explore how different instructions and commands work together to create programs and will develop their problem-solving and computational thinking skills by making changes to code to achieve specific outcomes.

App Development
This unit covers the process of planning, designing and developing an app for a specific purpose. Students will learn how to interpret a given brief, identify the needs of the intended users and develop suitable ideas for their app. They will plan their initial designs by considering the layout, features, navigation and functionality of the app before using an online development platform to build their solution. Students will then test and refine their app, making improvements based on feedback to ensure that it meets the requirements of the given brief.

Assessment

All units in Year 8 will be assessed through an end-of-topic written test and homework activities.

Homework

Homework is set on Insight / Parent Portal by class teachers fortnightly.

Further Resources

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 8 curriculum.

W3Schools – an excellent website offering detailed HTML and CSS tutorials.
BBC Bitesize: Control – excellent revision resources from the BBC.
Binary Game – play a fun binary game online.
The Virtual Microbit – allows you to program in micro-python using a virtual Microbit.

Year 9

Curriculum

Databases
This unit covers databases and how they are used to store, organise and manage information efficiently. Students will learn what a database is and explore key concepts including flat-file databases, tables, fields, records, entities and primary keys. They will develop their understanding of how data can be entered and managed using forms, and how queries and operators can be used to search, filter and retrieve specific information. Students will also learn how to create and use queries, forms and reports to present and analyse data effectively. Throughout the unit, students will develop their ability to analyse and evaluate information, solve problems using data and present clear and meaningful conclusions.

Networks
This unit builds on students’ knowledge of computer networks developed in Year 7 and introduces more advanced concepts relating to how networks are designed, connected and secured. Students will develop their understanding of how devices communicate and share data across networks, exploring different network topologies and how the structure of a network can affect its performance, reliability and efficiency. They will also examine the role of networking hardware, such as switches, routers and wireless access points, in enabling communication between devices. The unit will develop students’ understanding of network security, including common threats, vulnerabilities and methods used to protect networks, devices and data. Students will explore the importance of security measures such as authentication, passwords, encryption and firewalls, and consider how secure networks are maintained in homes, schools and organisations.

Introduction to Cybersecurity
This unit takes pupils on a journey of discovery about techniques used by cybercriminals to steal data, disrupt systems and infiltrate networks. They will consider the value of data to organisations and what it is used for. They will look at social engineering techniques and common cybercrimes.

Assessment

All units in Year 9 will be assessed through an end-of-topic written test.

Homework

Homework is set on Insight / Parent Portal by class teachers fortnightly.

Further Resources

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 9 curriculum.

Python – find out more about Python programming.
Code Academy – learn to program effectively with this great website.
W3Schools – an excellent website offering detailed Python programming tutorials and practice tasks.

KS4

Summary

At Key Stage 4, we offer pupils the opportunity to study GCSE Computer Science and the Cambridge National in IT. It gives pupils a real, in-depth understanding of computers. It offers an insight into what goes on ‘behind the scenes’, including computer programming, which many pupils find absorbing.

Pupils select their Key Stage 4 course option during Year 9.

GCSE Computer Science

Specification Code: 8525
Level: GCSE
Examination Board: AQA

Curriculum

This qualification is linear, meaning that students will sit all their examinations and submit all of their non-examination assessments at the end of Year 11. It consists of three components:

Paper 1: Computational thinking and problems
Paper 2: Written assessment

The subject content is as follows:

Fundamentals of algorithms
Programming
Fundamentals of data representation
Computer systems
Fundamentals of computer networks
Fundamentals of cyber security
Relational databases
Ethical, legal and environmental impacts of digital technology on wider society, including issues of privacy

Assessment

Paper 1: Computational thinking and problem-solving
Computational thinking, problem solving, code tracing and applied computing as well as theoretical knowledge of computer science from subject content 1 and 3 above.

External written examination set in practically based scenarios – 2 hours (90 marks) – 50% of GCSE grade (taken at the end of Year 11)

Questions are a mix of multiple choice, short answer and longer answer questions assessing a student’s practical problem solving and computational thinking skills.

Paper 2: Written assessment
Theoretical knowledge from subject content 3–7 above.

External written examination – 1 hour 45 minutes (90 marks) – 50% of GCSE questions

A mix of multiple choice, short answer, longer answer and extended response questions assessing a student’s theoretical knowledge.

Further Resources

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 10 curriculum.

AQA – examination board website offering specifications, mark schemes and past papers.
W3Schools – an excellent website offering detailed Python and SQL programming tutorials and practice tasks.
Repl.it – an online IDE allowing students to write and build programs
Seneca Learning – useful online revision resource for students undertaking GCSE Computer Science

Cambridge Nationals in IT

Specification Code: 603/7115/8
Level: GCSE
Examination Board: OCR

Curriculum

This course consists of three units

R050: IT in the digital world

R060: Data manipulation using spreadsheets

R070: Using augmented reality to present information

Assessment

R050: IT in the digital world
Practical examination – 1 hour 30 minutes – 40% of grade

R060: Data manipulation using spreadsheets
Internal assessment – 10-12 guided learning hours – 30% of grade

R070: Using augmented reality to present information
Internal assessment – 10-12 guided learning ours – 30% of grade

Further Resources

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 10 curriculum.

OCR – examination board website offering specifications, mark schemes and past papers.

KS5

Summary

At Key Stage 5, we offer pupils the opportunity to study different Computing and IT courses. We currently offer the following courses: GCE A level Computer Science and Cambridge Technical Level 3 in Information Technology.

Computer Science A level values computational thinking, helping learners to develop the skills to solve problems, design systems and understand the power and limits of human and machine intelligence. Learners will develop an ability to analyse, critically evaluate and make decisions. We offer a suite of qualifications for the Level 3 Cambridge Technical in Information Technology. These qualifications are suitable for students preparing for employment in any Information Technology sector, or to complement, as a good combination with a business course. It is a practical subject that provides useful skills if students are unsure of their plans for university and can be used to support study in further and higher education.

A Level Computer Science

Specification Code: H446
Level: A level
Examination Board: OCR

Curriculum

This qualification is linear, meaning that students will sit all their examinations and submit all of their non-examination assessments at the end of Year 13. It consists of three components:

Component 1 – Computer Systems

The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices
Software and software development
Exchanging data
Data types, data structures and algorithms
Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues

Component 2 – Algorithms and Programming

Elements of computational thinking
Problem solving and programming
Algorithms to solve problems and standard algorithms

Component 3 – Programming Project
The learner will choose a computing problem to work through according to the guidance in the specification.

Analysis of the problem
Design of the solution
Developing the solution
Evaluation

Assessment

Component 1
Written examination – 2 hours 30 minutes – 40% of A level

Component 2
Written examination – 2 hours 30 minutes – 40% of A level

Non-Examination Assessment (NEA) – Programming project
Written examination – Programming project consisting of 72 guided learning hours. Assessed both in school and through external moderation – 20% of A level

Further Resources

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their curriculum.

OCR – examination board’s website, offering past papers and mark schemes.
Repl.it – an online IDE allowing students to write and build programs
Craig N Dave on YouTube – YouTube playlist for the H446 specification
Seneca Learning – useful online revision resource for students undertaking GCSE Computer Science

BTEC Nationals Information Technology (AAQ)

Specification Code: 610/3960/3
Level: Level 3
Examination Board: Pearson (Edexcel)

Year 12

Curriculum

In Year 12, students will study the following topics:

Unit 1 – Information Technology Systems
Unit 3 – Website Development

Assessment

Unit 1 – Information Technology Systems
Written examination - 1 hour 30 minutes

Unit 3 – Website Development
Internally assessed unit

Each unit is graded Fail, Pass, Merit or Distinction. The grades for each individual unit together enable students to achieve the equivalent UCAS tariff points to an A level at Grade A*, A, C, or E.

Further Resources

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 12 curriculum.

Pearson – examination board’s website, offering past papers and mark schemes.
Teach-ICT.com – useful resource for all of the units.
BCS – useful resource for recent news articles relevant to the theoretical components
Know It All Ninja – useful revision website to complement all of the units.

Year 13

Curriculum

In Year 13, students will study the followng topics:

Unit 2 - Cyber security and Incident Management
Unit 4 - Relational Database Development

Assessment

Unit 2 - Cyber security and Incident Management
Written examination – 1 hour 30 minutes

Unit 4 - Relational Database Development
Internally assessed unit

Further Resources

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 12 curriculum.

Pearson – examination board’s website, offering past papers and mark schemes.
‘Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT Student’ Book by Saundra Middleton, Victoria Ellis and Graham Manson.
‘My Revision notes Cambridge Technicals Level 3’ Book by Mo Everett

CTEC Diploma in Information Technology

Specification Code: 601/7101/7
Level: CTEC
Examination Board: OCR

Year 12

Curriculum

In Year 12, students will study the following topics:

Unit 1 – Fundamentals in IT
Unit 2 – Global Information
Unit 3 – Cyber Security
Unit 6 – Application Design
Unit 13 – Social Media and Digital Marketing

Assessment

Unit 1 – Fundamentals of IT
Written examination – 1 hour 30 minutes

Unit 2 – Global information
Written examination – 1 hour 30 minutes

Unit 3 – Cyber-Security
Written examination – 1 hour

Unit 6 and 13 are centre-assessed and externally-moderated by OCR.

Each unit is graded Fail, Pass, Merit or Distinction. Building on the BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma, a further 6 units are completed which together enable students to achieve the equivalent UCAS tariff points to 2 A-Levels at Grades A*A*, A*A, AA, BB, CC, DD or EE.

Further Resources

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 12 curriculum.

OCR – examination board’s website, offering past papers and mark schemes.
‘Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT Student’ Book by Saundra Middleton, Victoria Ellis and Graham Manson.
‘My Revision notes Cambridge Technicals Level 3’ Book by Mo Everett

Year 13

Curriculum

In Year 13, students will study the following topics:

Unit 8 – Project Management
Unit 9 – Product Development
Unit 12 – Mobile Technology
Unit 14 – Software Engineering for Business
Unit 15 – Games Design and Prototyping
Unit 17 – Internet of Everything
Unit 21 – Web Design and Prototyping
Unit 22- Big Data Analytics

Assessment

All units are centre-assessed and externally-moderated by OCR.

Further Resources

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 13 curriculum.

OCR – examination board’s website, offering past papers and mark scheme.
‘Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT Student’ Book by Saundra Middleton, Victoria Ellis and Graham Manson.
‘My Revision notes Cambridge Technicals Level 3’ Book by Mo Everett

Cambridge Advanced National in IT: Data Analytics

Specification Code: 610/3997/4
Level: CTEC
Examination Board: Pearson

Year 12

Curriculum

In Year 12, students will study the following topics:

F200 - Fundamentals of data analytics
F202 - Spreadsheet data modelling

Assessment

F200 - Fundamentals of data analytics
Written examination - 1 hour 15 minutes

F202 - Spreadsheet data modelling
Internally assessed unit

Further Resources

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 12 curriculum.

OCR – examination board’s website, offering past papers and mark scheme.
‘Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT Student’ Book by Saundra Middleton, Victoria Ellis and Graham Manson.
‘My Revision notes Cambridge Technicals Level 3’ Book by Mo Everett

Year 13

Curriculum

In Year 13, students will study the following topics:

F201 - Big data and machine learning
F203 - Relational database design

Assessment

F201 Big data and machine learning
Written examination - 1 hour 15 minutes

F203: Relational database design
Internally assessed unit

All units are centre-assessed and externally-moderated by OCR.

Further Resources

Please see below for a number of resources to maximise students’ progress during their Year 13 curriculum.

OCR – examination board’s website, offering past papers and mark scheme.
‘Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT Student’ Book by Saundra Middleton, Victoria Ellis and Graham Manson.
‘My Revision notes Cambridge Technicals Level 3’ Book by Mo Everett

Extra-Curricular

We organise a number of activities for our students. These include:

Coding Club
Robotics workshop at Legoland