Computing Computing Department Intent The Computing curriculum is designed to provide every student with the knowledge, skills and confidence to thrive in an increasingly digital world. We are committed to providing a highly inclusive curriculum where all students, regardless of their starting point, background or additional need, can access, participate in and succeed in Computing. Through carefully sequenced learning, adaptive teaching and high expectations for every learner, we ensure that all students develop the digital literacy, computational thinking and problem-solving skills required to become autonomous, responsible and resilient users of technology. Computing enables students to develop their digital literacy, allowing them to become independent users of computing technologies whilst gaining confidence and enjoyment from their learning. By understanding and applying the principles of Computer Science and Information Technology in a safe and supportive environment, students are equipped to engage successfully with the digital world across the curriculum and beyond, enabling them to harness the power of technology throughout their lives. Key Stage 3 Students in Years 7, 8 and 9 receive two 60-minute lessons per fortnight, with homework set at least once per half term, in line with the Lathom homework policy. Students are taught in mixed-attainment groups where high expectations are maintained for all. Learning is adapted to ensure every student can access the curriculum and make progress, with assessment used to identify misconceptions and inform targeted support and challenge. Students study a broad range of topics including E-Safety, Networks, Scratch, Python Programming, Data Analysis, and Artificial Intelligence, providing a strong foundation for further study and everyday life. Key Stage 4 Students have the opportunity to study Computer Science or IT in Years 10 and 11. In Computer Science, students study how computers work internally, how data is represented, computer networks and cybersecurity, alongside the ethical and legal implications of technology. They also develop programming skills using Python, learning how to design, develop, test and evaluate algorithms and software solutions. In IT, students complete an examined unit alongside coursework units. They study topics including computer hardware and memory, Artificial Intelligence, e-commerce, IT management and emerging technologies. Through coursework, students develop practical skills by designing and creating databases, spreadsheets, automated documents and digital media products. Across both qualifications, teaching is adapted to support all learners in accessing challenging content while preparing them for further education, employment and life in an increasingly digital society. Enrichment Opportunities Code Club 3D Printing Cyberfirst eSports What to read The Early Days – Charles Babbage The Early Days – Ada Lovelace Computing Ends World War ll Early – Alan Turing Computing Ends World War ll Early – Bletchley Park Computing Ends World War ll Early – The National Museum of Computing Your Computer Is Decades Old – John Von Neumann Your Computer Is Decades Old – Manchester Baby Early Days Of Microsoft – Microsoft Early Days of Apple – Apple Our Connected World Begins – History of The Internet Our Connected World Begins – Napster Our Connected World Begins – Y2K Bug Key Stage 3 Curriculum Map Key Stage 4 Curriculum Map
