Computer Science
Staff
Mr N King CITP FBCS (Head of Department)
Mr M Hawkins (2nd in Department)
Miss C Zetu (Teacher of Computer Science)
Mr C Eaton (Technical Operations Manager)
Mr A Kilcullen (Head of IT Services)
Mr M Hinton (Senior ICT Technician)
Aims
Computer Science is part of the core curriculum at Handsworth Grammar School at KS3, to which it becomes in option in KS4 and KS5.
The Computer Science curriculum that is delivered at HGS has been designed to enable students to develop skills that can be used throughout the whole of their education with emphasis on particular computing skills including programming, digital literacy and graphic design.
Course Calendars
Resources
Departmental resources include five dedicated computer suites consisting of 30 computers in each room. There are a further eight additional computer suites, across other curriculum areas, giving a total provision of around 500 computers throughout the school. Our extensive facilities allow all students to have individual access to a computer when required. The dedicated computer suites incorporate the latest technologies. This has fully opened the world of touch technology in lessons, enabling increased engagement, involvement and collaboration.
Key Stage 3
In Key Stage 3 our Computer Science and multimedia curriculum has been enhanced to incorporate computing topics aligned to workplace competencies expected by employers.
Year 7
In year 7 pupils have one lesson per week. The students begin with an induction unit to help them become familiar with the ICT facilities in our school. This unit also develops good working practices and emphasises the importance of frequently saving all schoolwork onto their personal cloud drive.
| Year 7 – One lesson per week |
| 7.1 Induction |
| 7.2 Baseline Assessments |
| 7.3 Digital Enterprise Certificated Award |
| 7.4 How Computers Work |
| 7.5 Programming with Python |
| 7.6 Physical Computing |
| 7.7 MS Office |
| 7.8 Turtle Graphics |
| 7.9 Micro:bit Programming |
| 7.10 Teach-ICT Further Python |
| 7.11 Code Combat |
| 7.12 Scratch |
Year 8
In year 8 pupils have two lessons per week. The course operates in a similar manner to year 7, with some new skills being learned and some existing skills being extended to an intermediate / advance level. The units of work are as follows:
| Year 8 – Two lessons per week |
| 8.1 Computer Systems |
| 8.2 Spreadsheets |
| 8.3 Computational Thinking – Oxford University Challenge (Bebras) |
| 8.4 Adobe Animation |
| 8.5 Computer Networks |
| 8.6 Advanced Programming using Python |
| 8.7 Digital Enterprise Award |
| 8.8 HTML |
| 8.9 Cyber Security |
| 8.10 Artificial intelligence |
Year 9
In year 9 pupils have one lesson per week. The course continues in a similar manner to years 7 and 8, with new skills being learned and some being developed further, providing them with an example of what to expect in GCSE should they choose to pursue this subject later on.
| Year 9 – One lesson per week |
| 9.1 Understanding Computers |
| 9.2 Computational Thinking – Oxford University Challenge (Bebras) |
| 9.3 Problem Solving Using Algorithms |
| 9.4 Cyber Security and the Internet |
| 9.5 Expert Databases with BCS |
| 9.6 Advanced Digital Enterprise Award |
| 9.7 Advanced programming. |
Key Stage 4
Year 10 to 11
Computer Science is an option subject in Key Stage 4 and the department currently offers the following qualification at Level 2:
OCR GCSE in Computer Science (J277).
This new OCR GCSE Computer Science course enables students to apply computational thinking in context, across two written examinations. We build students’ ability to think computationally, within the context of a single scenario, and prepare students for real-world computer challenges. Computational thinking is integrated throughout the content to embed this essential approach to the subject.
The skills and knowledge developed through this qualification help students to: understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms, and data representation. Analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems, including designing, writing and debugging programs. Think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically. Understand the components that make up digital systems, and how they communicate with one another and with other systems. Understand the impacts of digital technology to the individual and to wider society and apply mathematical skills relevant to computer science.
GCSE specifications in Computer Science will be assessed through two written examinations.
The GCSE Computer Science qualification develops ‘underpinning knowledge’ and transferable skills for progression to A levels and higher education. It includes topics that extend students’ understanding and aids progression, for example, the internet and SQL databases.
Key Stage 5
The Computer Science A-Level will extend thinking skills, logic and problem solving as well as learning technical details about computer hardware, diagramming and creating actual program code.
The ECDL Certification and Advanced (level 2 and 3) are offered as part of the Enrichment Programme in year 12. These are modular courses assessed by on-screen practical and theory tests. Upon completion of ECDL Advanced (BCS Certificate in IT User Skills), 24 UCAS points are awarded.
A-Level Computer Science (AQA)
A-Level Computer Science is an engaging and challenging qualification that develops students’ understanding of how computer systems work, how software is developed, and how computational thinking can be used to solve complex problems. The course combines both theoretical knowledge and practical programming skills, preparing students for university study and careers in fields such as software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, games development, and digital technologies. The specification covers programming, algorithms, data structures, computer systems, computer architecture, networks, databases, Big Data, functional programming, and the ethical, legal and social impacts of computing.
Students will regularly design, develop and test programs, using computational thinking techniques to analyse problems and create effective solutions. An independent programming project also allows students to demonstrate their ability to solve a realistic problem through the development of a substantial software application.
Assessment
The AQA A-Level Computer Science qualification is assessed through:
Paper 1: Programming
- Written examination: 2 hours 30 minutes
- 40% of the A-Level
- Tests students’ ability to program, solve problems and apply their understanding of algorithms and computational thinking.
Paper 2: Computer Science Theory
- Written examination: 2 hours 30 minutes
- 40% of the A-Level
- Assesses understanding of computer systems, architecture, networking, databases, data representation, the consequences of computing, and other theoretical concepts.
Non-Exam Assessment (NEA): Computing Practical Project
- 20% of the A-Level
- Students design, develop, test and evaluate a substantial programming project to solve a practical problem. The project is intended to showcase independent problem-solving and software development skills.
Progression
A-Level Computer Science provides an excellent foundation for degrees and apprenticeships in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Information Technology, and related STEM disciplines. The analytical and programming skills developed throughout the course are also highly valued by employers across a wide range of industries.
ICDL / ITQ (International Computer Driving Licence)
What is ICDL?
The International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL) is an internationally recognised series of qualifications for people who need to demonstrate to potential employers their competence in the key concepts of computing, or who simply require a solid foundation of computing skills upon which to build their future IT experience. It can be delivered in school, college, university or in work places. ICDL is the BCS’s brand name for ITQ.
