ICT Department
Pupils enjoy the benefits of wireless laptop access to ICT on a cross curricular basis throughout the school with most departments also having interactive whiteboard capability to enhance teaching and learning. ICT is taught to all KS3 pupils for one lesson per week by ICT specialists following the KS3 National ICT Strategy. We have two ICT suites equipped with the latest technology. Differentiated materials and tasks are provided for all student abilities including those with special educational needs and advanced learning capabilities, through the gifted and talented scheme.
Emphasis in lessons is placed on pupils’ understanding of the role and place of Information, Communication and Technology in society through practical applications to a variety of audiences. Key ICT skills are taught and pupils are expected to achieve and exceed the nationally recognized level 5 standards for this age band. Homework is given in each lesson and is regarded as an essential element in high pupil achievement.
At Key Stage 4 pupils are able to opt for ICT in which they follow the Edexcel GCSE full course. Pupils not choosing ICT as an option will have one lesson a fortnight either on the GCSE Business and Communication Studies or The CLAIT Certificate, so all students at the end of Year 11 will have the opportunity of obtaining an ICT qualification.
In the Sixth Form pupils can choose the AQA Applied GCE ICT qualification.