I.C.T. (Information Communication Technology)

Head of Department: Mr M Evans BA IEng MIEIE PGCE CInstLM

The importance of ICT, not only as a standalone subject but as the principle tool in all other subjects in the curriculum has at last been recognised by the government in making ICT a compulsory part of the KS3 assessment and using online testing to conduct this assessment.

The school has 2 purpose built computer suites in the main body of the school; in addition the juniors have their own suite, as do the Sixth form in their own individual buildings. All computers are networked and internet enabled. Internet filtering is applied for the protection of all pupils.

Pupils are given maximum opportunity for the hands on practical approach to learning and are expected to have reached a high standard of ability by the end of year 9. Every pupil will have their own computer in a lesson and class size policy means that everyone can receive the personal help and attention they need. Progress is monitored and recorded on pupil's individual record sheets and the progress reviewed every half term.

It is appreciated that pupils have different facilities available at home and may have to share these facilities with the family, so prep work set in ICT ensures that no pupil is disadvantaged because of these reasons.

KS3: All the requirements of the ICT National Curriculum are fully met as pupils discover how ICT is used in the world around us, learn how ICT can work as a research and development tool and experience the art of data collection and presentation in this and other subjects. The emphasis is again on the practical "hands on" approach with every pupil having their own workstation in class.

GCSE: This course is particularly interesting because teaching is being continually updated to include the latest in technology methods and has further proved itself as a good introduction for further education courses in ICT (see below)

In Unit1, Living In A Digital World, students explore how digital technology impacts on the lives of individuals, organisations and society. They learn about current and emerging digital technologies and the issues raised by their use in a range of contexts (learning and earning, leisure, shopping and money management, health and wellbeing and on the move). They develop awareness of the risks that are inherent in using ICT and the features of safe, secure and responsible practice.

Unit 2, Using Digital Tools, is a practical unit. Students broaden and enhance their ICT skills and capability. They work with a range of digital tools and techniques to produce effective ICT solutions in a range of contexts. They learn to reflect critically on their own and others’ use of ICT and to adopt safe, secure and responsible practice.

Assessment is by:

Written Examination which contributes 40% of the final GCSE mark Practical Controlled Assessment which contributes 60% to the final GCSE mark