The computer science department at Weald of Kent Grammar School aims to inspire students to explore the world of computing. Our curriculum is designed to be engaging, relevant, and reflective of real-world applications. In Key Stage 3, students get hands-on experience with programming through various projects. Our focus is on the application of computer science, referencing the technology that students already encounter on a regular basis.

Students learn the value of persevering through challenges and develop resilience when faced with complex problems. This resilience and determination can be applied to any situation in life, fostering a sense of courage and a willingness to take on abstract concepts. Curiosity is nurtured in our computer science curriculum, as students are encouraged to deepen their knowledge both inside and outside the classroom. They are given the opportunity to explore different solutions to problems and develop a genuine interest in the subject. Compassion is also emphasised, as students learn to consider the impact of their actions on others. By promoting ethical awareness, we aim to create responsible digital citizens who understand the importance of considering the well-being of others.

In addition to technical skills, computer science also offers transferable skills that are valuable in various fields. Students have the opportunity to develop problem-solving abilities, critical thinking skills, and logical reasoning. Computer science offers clear career and further education pathways, but it is also a way of thinking. This can be directly applied to fields like research and medicine, where machine learning is used to interpret data. It can also influence those same professions with soft skills like algorithmic thinking to help keep your thought processes as judgement free as possible. Computer Science skills are in demand in today's ever-changing world. By developing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, students are prepared for future challenges and opportunities.

In summary, the computer science department delivers a curriculum that inspires, challenges, and prepares students for the digital future. Through theoretical knowledge and practical skills, we empower students to become confident, creative, and responsible individuals who are equipped with the transferable skills needed to succeed in various fields.

 

Course Content

Years 7-9

At Key Stage 3, our curriculum introduces students to core concepts from GCSE Computer Science through practical, relatable experiences. Rather than abstract theory, we focus on technology that students encounter in their daily lives and skills that will benefit them beyond school.

• Emphasis on visible technologies such as home routers, street-side network cabinets and mobile phones (instead of desktop hardware).
• Exploration of how computing skills relate to a range of careers and industries, which is reinforced throughout the course.
• Development of problem-solving and programming skills through engaging projects, including but not limited to.:
  • Designing interactive quizzes
  • Creating natinal flags using Python Turtle graphics
  • Making a website f their choosing
  • Building a chatbt

This stage builds confidence and curiosity, laying the groundwork for further study in Computer Science or a solid foundation in Computer Science concepts for those that choose a different path.

Years 10 and 11

We follow the OCR GCSE Computer Science specification, providing students with a strong foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of computing. Students also complete an NEA-style programming project, guiding them through the full development lifecycle from planning to evaluation.

Specification Overview

Component 1: Computer Systems

• Systems architecture
• Memory and storage
• Wired and wireless networks
• Network topologies, protocols and layers
• System security
• System software
• Ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns

Component 2: Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming

• Algorithms and flowcharts
• Programming fundamentals
• Producing robust programs
• Boolean logic
• Programming languages and Integrated Development Environments (IDEs)

Practical Programming

• Students develop programming skills using a high-level language; in our case, Python.

Key stage 5

The A Level Computer Science course offers a rigorous and comprehensive study of computing principles, preparing students for university and careers in technology and related fields.

Course Summary

• Systems architecture and processor design
• Software development methodologies and lifecycle
• Data types, structures and algorithms
• Networking and data exchange
• Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues in computing
• Computational thinking and problem-solving
• Advanced programming techniques and algorithm design
• Independent programming project: students design, implement and evaluate a complete software solution

This course equips students with the analytical and technical skills required for further academic study or employment in the digital sector.

Co-Curricular Opportunities:

In Year 10 we organise a trip to Blethcley Park to provide context to cryptography in the real world along with taking part in study sessions to enrich the students’ understanding of Computer Science.

Students who are interested in studying more, like learning another language, can have access to resources that we have created. We will also sign-post students to useful websites throughout the year.

We enter students in the First Lego League (Lego Mindstorm) competition, using robots to solve puzzles.

Testimonials

“Computer Science is easily my favourite subject at Weald! All my teachers are wonderful, terrific people and it's truly the highlight of my day - the best part of doing it for GSCE is that I get to do it more often! Not only do I feel completely at ease while in lessons, we are also one of the best schools for coding - we start learning Python in year 7! I aboslutely love Computer Science and I will always continue singing its praises, and I encourage everyone to at least give it a go! It's awesome!”
Year 10 Student

“I really like the computer science lessons. My teacher is very nice and understanding and he makes sure that everyone understands. Also doing all the lessons makes me feel proud that I’ve learnt so much and I can now apply it in simple things like programs or knowledge quizzes.”
Year 11 Student

“Computer Science is currently my favourite subject because the teachers are really approachable and generally interesting and fun people to talk to. I especially enjoy coding because i find it really peaceful to be able to work on a project in peace (until you accidentally make 2 infinity loops and don't know how to fix it).”
Year 11 Student

“I love computer science lessons as they are well structured and easy to work through because we have more freedom”
Year 11 Student

“Despite not being experienced in computer science before Weald, it has grown to be my favourite subject, primarily because of all of my teachers - who have always supported me in lessons, and have a genuine strong interest in their subject. As well as them, the curriculum has a good balance of theory and programming projects, so the subject doesn't become dry while learning. Even with the heavier topics my teachers have always made it simple to understand, and the nature of the lessons break down the concepts really well. I doubt I would've come to enjoy the subject as much if I went to another school.”
Year 12 Student

 “I found the trip to Bletchley Park fun and well planned with the workshop on cyphers being insightful, interesting and engaging.”
Year 11 student