Computing / ICT at The Polygon School

Ethos

Computing / ICT at The Polygon school aims to enable our students to find, explore, analyse, exchange and present information. We also focus on developing the skills necessary for all students to be able to use information in an effective way. Through teaching computing we equip our students to participate in a rapidly changing world where work and leisure activities are increasingly transformed by technology. All students will have the opportunity to write their own programs, design webpages and apps, and produce professional quality digital products.

Intent

Key Stage 3

In key stage 3 students will complete units based around the three strands of the computing curriculum; Computer science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy. The intent of the key stage 3 curriculum is to expose and familiarise themselves with a variety of computing programmes that they may need in the future.

Students will understand how computers work by looking at the hardware that make up computer systems. They will begin to understand how various types of instructions are stored and executed in computer systems, and how they can be used to represent images, music and text.

Students will undertake creative projects that involve selecting, using, and combining multiple applications to achieve goals.

Consequently the intent is that they will understand a range of ways to use technology safely, respectfully, responsibly and securely. Students protecting their online identity and privacy; recognising inappropriate content; contact and conduct; and knowing how to report concerns.

Key Stage 4

In key stage 4, students will continue to develop and build on the work completed in key stage 3. They will undertake the EDEXCEL Functional Skills level 1 and 2. This qualification will test their ability to follow instructions, execute learned skills and produce digital products. Students will be expected to use the range of Microsoft Office programmes as well as show effective use of search engines and the internet.

Pupils will also split their time working on attaining their iDEA badges, these are equivalent to Duke of Edinburgh levels, following the same Gold, Silver and Bronze format.

Qualifications

EDEXCEL Functional Skills Level 1/2

This is a pass / fail exam that aims to test students on a range of programmes and assess their ability to meet a design brief.

Implementation

• Planned, structured and sequenced lessons
• Learning in a safe and secure environment
• Use of a variety of resources and equipment to increase student participation
• A broad range of topics used to engage students
• Consistent feedback and marking in line with whole school policy
• Staff attendance at network meeting leading to CPD

Impact

It is hoped that students will develop into competent and proficient computer scientists. It is hoped that students will become digitally literate, they will have the ‘ability to use information and communication technologies to find, evaluate, create, and communicate information, requiring both cognitive and technical skills.’ Their progress will be measured through quality of completed projects and results in examinations.