Option Subjects

Creative And Technology

We recommend that at least ONE creative or technology subject is included in each pupil’s choices.

Computer Science

Pupils who opt for Computer Science GCSE will develop their understanding of current and emerging technologies.

During the course pupils learn how to design, write and evaluate computer programs in different coding languages, both individually and working collaboratively. Pupils also learn to appreciate efficiency in design, thereby ensuring their programs make effective use of their processing capacity.

Additionally, pupils learn about the wider issues surrounding technology in society and how to assess the impact of their programs on their users and wider audiences.

Are there any special requirements?

Pupils who are strong in Mathematics and the science subjects are likely to enjoy Computer Science. Solving the challenges that programming presents requires initiative and tenacity. Entry to the Computer Science course is limited and a bench-marking test may be required to secure a place on this course.

What could I do with Computer Science?

Programming is the clear and concise expression of logical thought and is attractive to employers in many fields.

GCSE Computer Science will provide a strong foundation for a candidate to develop computing solutions for everyday problems. It develops critical thinking, analysis and problem solving skills. It is an excellent starting point for a career in engineering, sciences, digital arts/games and computing.

Our current Year 11 are studying:

OCR 9-1 J277 Computer Science

Design And Technology

Our new STEAM facilities are now enabling us to offer Design and Technology IGCSE.

During lessons, most of the time you will be doing the following:

Designing: Taking risks to create imaginative ideas, designing and developing your ideas with CAD and prototype models and clearly communicating your design ideas to others.

Making: Working safely with tools, equipment and machinery – including CAD/CAM 3D printers and laser cutters, making high-quality working prototypes and considering the costs and implications of commercial production.

You will also learn about understanding users, sustainable design, materials (smart and modern), how things work and analysing existing products.

Are there any special requirements?

Pupils need to have taken STEAM in Year 9, should be creative and enjoy finding solutions to real-life problems. Due to 50% of the grade being coursework, it is crucial that pupils are organised and committed throughout the course. To do their best in the coursework component, there are times when the pupils are expected to spend extended time in the DT Laboratory outside of lessons and in addition to their normal homework allocation. Your school managed device, mouse and stylus are central to the course as we use these in lessons all the time.

Entry to the Design and Technology course is limited and a bench-marking test may be required to secure a place on this course.

What could I do with Design and Technology?

IGCSE Design and Technology opens doors to a wide range of careers in the creative, engineering and manufacturing industries as well as medicine, law and computer science.