An ambitious and inclusive curriculum

The curriculum is ambitious for every pupil. It develops the knowledge, practical skills and confidence pupils need to understand technology, solve problems and participate successfully in the digital world.

A carefully sequenced learning journey

Learning progresses from digital literacy, online safety and introductory programming to computer architecture, networks, algorithms, data structures and more complex software development.

Computational thinking and problem-solving

Pupils learn to break problems into manageable parts, identify patterns and create logical solutions. They develop resilience by testing, debugging and refining their work.

Programming

Pupils experience both block-based and text-based programming. They progress from introductory programming in Kodu, Scratch and Python to structured programming, algorithms, Boolean logic and more advanced programming techniques.

Digital literacy and practical IT

Pupils learn to select and use appropriate software for different tasks. They manage files, format information, use spreadsheets, create presentations and reports, and combine different applications to produce effective digital work.

Data and information

Pupils learn how data is collected, represented, stored, transferred, analysed and protected. They use spreadsheets and databases and develop an understanding of data representation, data types and big data.

Computer systems and networks

Pupils learn how hardware and software work together. They develop knowledge of computer architecture, memory, storage, systems software, networks, web technologies and cyber security.

Digital products and project management

Pupils plan, create, test and evaluate digital products. They consider purpose, audience, accessibility and effectiveness while developing the ability to manage projects from initial planning to completion.

Safe, responsible and ethical use

Pupils learn how to stay safe online, protect personal information and respond appropriately to digital risks. They consider online safety, privacy, cyber threats and the legal, moral, ethical and environmental impact of technology.

Artificial intelligence and emerging technology

Pupils explore artificial intelligence, machine learning and emerging technologies. They consider how these technologies work, how they are used and how they affect individuals, organisations and society.

Assessment that supports improvement

Teachers use questioning, practical activities, programming tasks and completed digital products to identify what pupils know, what they can apply and what they need to improve. Feedback helps pupils address misconceptions, refine code and improve the effectiveness of their digital work.

The impact of the curriculum

Over time, pupils become confident and responsible digital citizens. They can solve problems using logic and code, use digital tools to communicate and create, understand how technology affects the world and adapt to future technological developments. 

 

What pupils will learn in Computer Science and IT

Key Stage 3

At Key Stage 3, pupils develop foundations across Computer Science, IT and digital literacy. They learn to:

• Write code using block-based and text-based programming languages.
• Select appropriate software for different tasks.
• Combine applications to create presentations, reports and graphics.
• Use formatting, file management and other software features effectively.
• Understand how data is organised and analysed.
• Use technology safely and responsibly.
• Protect personal information and recognise online risks.

Year 7

Pupils study:

• Digital routines and online safety.
• Cryptography.
• Introduction to text-based programming using Python.
• Spreadsheets.
• Control systems.
• Kodu programming.

These units establish secure foundations in digital literacy, data, programming, computational thinking and responsible technology use. 

Year 8

Pupils study:

• Databases.
• Computer crime.
• Technology in the home.
• Spreadsheets and data analysis.
• Text-based programming using RoboMind.
• Artificial intelligence.

Pupils build on their Year 7 knowledge by applying digital and computational skills to more complex information, programming and technology contexts. 

Year 9

Pupils study:

• Searching and sorting.
• Block-based programming using Scratch.
• Web security through a collaborative project.
• Intermediate Python.
• Artificial intelligence and machine learning.
• The creation of a digital product involving sound, an application or animation.

Pupils apply their learning with greater independence and prepare for further study in Computer Science or Digital Information Technology. 

Key Stage 4 pathways

OCR GCSE Computer Science

Pupils develop their understanding of:

• Computer systems architecture.
• Memory and storage.
• Networks and cyber security.
• Data representation.
• Algorithms.
• Structured programming.
• Systems software.
• Legal, ethical and environmental issues.

Pupils learn to write efficient code, apply Boolean logic and solve computational problems systematically.

BTEC Level 2 Tech Award in Digital Information Technology

Pupils develop practical knowledge of digital technologies and how they are used by individuals and organisations. They learn to:

• Design and evaluate accessible user interfaces.
• Use spreadsheets to collect, analyse and present data.
• Understand modern technologies and their organisational impact.
• recognise cyber threats and ways of reducing risk.
• Use planning tools to manage digital projects.
• Create purposeful digital products for identified users. [Computing_...or_Parents | PDF], [Computer S...nce Tier 1 | PDF]

Key Stage 5 pathways

OCR A-Level Computer Science

Pupils develop advanced knowledge of:

• Computer components.
• Systems software.
• Software development.
• Data exchange.
• Networks and web technologies.
• Data types and data structures.
• Boolean algebra.
• Algorithms.
• Programming techniques.
• Legal, moral, ethical and environmental issues.

Pupils apply computational thinking to increasingly complex problems and complete advanced programming work. 

OCR Level 3 AAQ in IT and Data Analytics

Pupils develop knowledge and practical understanding of IT systems, data and digital solutions. They explore how data is used, the challenges associated with big data and how technology supports organisations and decision-making.

The course develops practical digital capability and prepares pupils for further study, apprenticeships and employment linked to IT and data analysis.