Pupils continue to develop their Word Processing and Presentation skills and are introduced to Web Page Authoring, Search Techniques, Graphics, Spreadsheets, and Computer Programming. In addition to this, theoretical concepts are taught and by the end of the year 7 pupils will have a good understanding of ICT terminology.

 

Pupils develop further their proficiency with Word Processing, Presentation, Graphics, Web Page Authoring, Computer Programming, and Spreadsheet software. They will also be introduced to Database software and Movie Editing. Units in Year 8 are focussed on combining skills and developing independent thought. Over the course of the year pupils develop an electronic portfolio of work which will form the main part of their assessment.

Pupils follow the’ ICT 4 Life’ Scheme of Work. This consists of 2 major projects and the focus is on developing their own ideas and working in groups. In addition to this pupils will follow the Level 2 Functional Skills Programme of Study which will be formally assessed at the end of the year.

 

There are three options available and students will have to take one suitable for their ability and long term aspirations.

1) GCSE ICT FULL COURSE (OCR)

2) CERTICATE IN DIGITAL APPLICATIONS (EDEXCEL)

3) KEY SKILLS CERTIFICATION COURSE

(If students decide not to take up the first two options, they will follow a Key

Skills Course for 1 hour a week)

In general terms the GCSE will consist of more theoretical aspects of ICT whereas the Certificate in Digital Applications course will have a vocational and skills based focus. All three options have very high levels of attainment. In 2008 100% of pupils gained an A*-C grade in the CIDA course and 76% of pupils gained an A*-C grade in the GCSE course.

 

There are 2 options available in the Sixth Form.

1) AS/A2 APPLIED ICT (EDEXCEL)

2) AS/A2 ICT (WJEC)

In broad terms the APPLIED ICT course follows a more vocational route whereas the ICT course has a greater theoretical slant. Both courses develop key software skills and are suitable preparation for studying Information Technology courses at University.