Key Stage 3

In Key Stage 3 we deliver the National Curriculum Computing programme of study. Learners engage in the following areas of learning:

• Understand several key algorithms that reflect computational thinking [for example, ones for sorting and searching]; use logical reasoning to compare the utility of alternative algorithms for the same problem (Kodu and Scratch.)
• Use two or more programming languages, at least one of which is textual, to solve a variety of computational problems; make appropriate use of data structures [eg: lists, tables or arrays]; design and develop modular programs that use procedures or functions.
• Understand simple Boolean logic [for example, AND, OR and NOT] and some of its uses in circuits and programming; understand how numbers can be represented in binary, and be able to carry out simple operations on binary numbers [for example, binary addition, and conversion between binary and decimal.]
• Understand the hardware and software components that make up computer systems, and how they communicate with one another and with other systems (Building a Computer.)
• Understand how instructions are stored and executed within a computer system; understand how data of various types (including text, sounds and pictures) can be represented and manipulated digitally, in the form of binary digits (Game development.)
• Undertake creative projects that involve selecting, using, and combining multiple applications, preferably across a range of devices, to achieve challenging goals, including collecting and analysing data and meeting the needs of known users (Creating a video/Sound manipulation.)
• Create, re-use, revise and re-purpose digital artefacts for a given audience, with attention to trustworthiness, design and usability (Links to i-Media unit Digital Graphics.)
• Understand a range of ways to use technology safely, respectfully, responsibly and securely, including protecting their online identity and privacy; recognise inappropriate content, contact and conduct and know how to report concerns (E-safety/Blogging.)

Key Stage 4

In Creative iMedia are media sector-focused units, including: film/television, web development, gaming and animation, digital photography and sound and have ICT at their heart. They provide knowledge in a number of key areas in this field from pre-production skills to digital animation and have a motivating, hands-on approach to both teaching and learning. Cambridge Nationals deliver skills across the whole range of learning styles and abilities, effectively engaging and inspiring all students to achieve great things.

Creative iMedia consist of three qualifications: an Award (60 guided learning hours requiring two units), a Certificate (120 guided learning hours requiring four units) and a Diploma (240 guided learning hours requiring eight units).
All units of work are coursework based and there is a final exam to be taken at the end of in year 11.