Computer Science

At Ash Green School our computer science program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the rapidly evolving field of technology. Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience, students learn how to analyse problems, design algorithms, and develop software applications.

Our program offers a variety of courses in computer science, ranging from introductory topics for beginners in KS3 to advanced courses for experienced students at GCSE and A Level. Students can expect to learn about areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, web development, and cybersecurity.

Courses Offered:

KS3 Computing

In KS3 Computing, students will develop their understanding of computational thinking, programming, and computer systems. Our curriculum is designed to encourage creativity, logical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

In Year 7, students will begin by exploring the basics of computer systems, including how computers work and how they communicate with each other. They will also learn the fundamentals of programming through block-based coding languages, such as Scratch.

In Year 8, students will delve deeper into programming, learning to code using text-based languages such as Python. They will develop their programming skills by creating more complex programs and exploring algorithms.

In Year 9, students will focus on computer systems and networks, learning about the hardware and software components of a computer system. They will also investigate how networks operate, including network protocols and security.

Throughout KS3 Computing, students will learn about the impact of technology on society, including ethical and legal issues such as online safety, digital citizenship, and copyright.

Our aim is to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in further studies in computing, and to prepare them for the ever-evolving digital world.

OCR GCSE Computer Science

In this course, you will be studying two units: Unit 1 – Computer Systems and Unit 2 – Computational Thinking and Programming.

In Unit 1, you will learn about current and emerging digital technologies, as well as ethical issues such as the impact of technology on the environment. Topics covered include systems architecture, memory and storage, computer networks and protocols, network security, systems software, and the ethical, legal, cultural, and environmental impacts of digital technology.

In Unit 2, you will investigate algorithms and learn how to write, correct, explain, and evaluate them. You will also study Boolean logic, data types, data representation, data structures, security, programming languages, programming, and abstraction.

By successfully completing this course, you will obtain a GCSE in Computer Science at grades 9-1, with a single tier of entry for the subject.

Assessment for both units will be done through a written examination lasting 1 hour and 30 minutes each, with each unit accounting for 50% of the final grade.

OCR A-Level Computer Science

The A-Level in Computer Science is comprised of two examination components in Year 13 and one Programming Project.

Component 01: Computer Systems focuses on the internal workings of the CPU, data exchange, software development, data types, and legal and ethical issues. This component is worth 40% of the total Advanced GCE marks and is assessed through a 2-hour 30-minute written paper.

Component 02: Algorithms & Programming delves into computational thinking, its benefits in problem-solving, and the principles of solving problems using computational methods. Students will learn to use algorithms to solve problems and analyse problems by identifying their component parts. This component is also worth 40% of the total Advanced GCE marks and is assessed through a 2-hour 30-minute written paper.

Unit 3: Programming Project involves selecting a coding problem to work through. Students will analyse, design, develop, test, evaluate, and document a program written in a suitable programming language. The aim of the project is to apply the principles of computational thinking to a practical coding problem. This component is worth 20% of the total Advanced GCE marks and is a non-exam assessment.

Successfully completing the A-Level in Computer Science will require thorough understanding of computer systems, algorithms, programming, and computational thinking, and will provide students with the ability to solve real-world problems using computational methods.

Faculty:

Our computer science faculty members are experienced professionals with a passion for teaching and technology. They hold advanced degrees in computer science and have experience working in the technology industry.

Facilities:

The computer science program has a computer lab equipped with the required hardware and software. Students have access to resources such as programming tools, databases, and software development environments. In addition, students have access resources such as textbooks, online tutorials, and programming challenges.

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of our computer science program are well-prepared for careers in a variety of technology-related fields, including software development, cybersecurity, data analysis, and more. Many of our students go on to work for leading technology companies or pursue advanced degrees in computer science or related fields.

Contact Us:

For more information about our computer science program, please contact Head of Department Mr Shergill, at jeetender.shergill@ashgreenschool.org.uk