Head of Department

Mr B Kerr, BSc (Hons) PGCE

Statement of Intent

Computing gives our students an understanding of and capability in the highly technological world they are born into. Computation and the technology that delivers it, affects their lives broadly and deeply. Understanding the 1 and 0s of the digital world is a fundamental as understanding the atoms that comprise the physical world.

At DHSG, we aim to give students:

• knowledge of the underlying mechanics of computing;
• understanding of the effect it has on our world;
• consciousness of how computing may best be used to improve their future work and the world they live in;
• the ability to use computational thinking to solve problems in the physical world and specifically in programming;
• awareness of the legislation, social, economic and environmental effects of computing;
• skill in using day-to-day software and technology, used widely in the world of work;
• appreciation of the serious implications and application of cybersecurity.

Students learn how computing skills enhance their abilities to achieve in other subjects and walks of life. For example, they should be aware of creating business models, scientific simulations, interactive art installations, perform complex mathematical equations, research vast archives for History, gain new perspectives from remote imaging and sensing for earth sciences, enhanced communication and data collection for social sciences. They should understand the seismic shifts that can be achieved through programming and algorithms and the realisation of ideas into reality through code. This includes discussing successful software, social changes from electronic communication and big tech algorithms.  They should develop an understanding of the ways our society and work can and will change as a result of automation, artificial intelligence and new technologies. Such as researching Artificial Intelligence and job replacement/adaptation, 3D printing in large scale and different materials.

At all stages, we encourage students to ask questions about the subject, technology, interaction with other disciplines and its impact on real life. Successful students should be capable of taking full advantage of the modern world, while being safe, confident, and considerate in it.

 In the lower years, students study a broad curriculum that addresses what we academically describe as ICT and Computer Science. ICT skills are the skills that the vast majority of students will need regardless of the path chosen in life, such as the use of office software and the internet. Computer Science particularly support those looking to follow STEM pathways, but is all important to understand how the modern world about us functions.

The topics covered in year 7 are:

• Spreadsheets, modelling and use of data.
• Programming Essentials using Blocky style programming.
• E-Safety, being part of the online world and providing reliable information.
• Networking, the internet and the Web.
• Text based programming using Python.
• Webpages and their design.
• The topics covered in year 8 are:
• Next steps Python Programming
• How computers work: Number Systems, data representation, Logic and the Fetch-Execute cycle
• Security and Cryptography
• Artificial Intelligence
• Text games
• E-Safety Part 2

In the middle years, students follow the OCR GCSE Computer Science Curriculum, which covers:

• Unit 1 - Systems architecture, Memory and storage, computer networks, connections and protocols, network security, systems software, ethical, legal, cultural and environmental impacts of digital technology.
• Unit 2 - Algorithms, programming fundamentals, producing robust programs, Boolean logic, programming languages and Integrated Development Environments.

Extra-curricular activities

As a department we run a number of lunch-time support sessions throughout the year. These take place in CR1 and are predominantly aimed at middle year students who wish to work on their programming skills.

During enrichment days every opportunity is used to allow students to continue to develop their digital literacy.