ICT
This department is a large, vibrant and visionary subject area, that offers a variety of courses to personalise learning and maximise the opportunities for our students to achieve their full potential in ICT. We are well equipped and resourced with modern PC computer hardware and software, using the latest Windows and Microsoft Office. There are eight dedicated ICT suites which are all networked and each room can accommodate a whole class of students to work individually. Since 2006, this department has significantly improved GCSE results year upon year, with the best every results achieved in 2010 at 99.6% achieving grade C or above.
Staff
| Mrs V Gray | Faculty Leader for ICT, Business & Technology, Associate Assistant Principal, Deep Learning |
| Miss S McDonald | Head of ICT & Business Studies |
| Miss J Blair | 2nd in ICT responsibility for Key Stage 3 |
| Mrs T Motson | Teacher of ICT (also Assistant Principal, Deep Experience/Deep Support) |
| Mr R Peet | Teacher of ICT/Business |
| Miss C Baxter | Teacher of ICT |
| Mr L Chapman | Teacher of ICT |
Curriculum
ICT is a tool used to support and enhance learning across all subject areas in the Academy. Our students in ICT develop understanding and experience ICT skills, which they can develop, utilise and integrate into other lessons. Students are taught a wide range of applications, features and software packages to help them develop their own skills and qualities across all Key Stages.
Key Stage 3
Students will learn a wide range of skills, from word processing, spreadsheets, databases and presentation skills to help them become proficient in ICT and independent learners. In Year 7 our students follow a personalised Next Generation curriculum where ICT is taught across all subject areas. In years 8 and 9 our students are provided with dedicated ICT lessons, taught by specialists and follow the OCR Nationals course at Level 2 working towards National First Certificate. This allows our students to achieve between one to three GCSEs. This course allows students to practice their skills which enhance creativity and communication qualities needed in the workplace or in further education.
Key Stage 4
Towards the end of year 8, students and their parents make choices about the courses which they will follow from year 9. As part of this personalised approach students have the option to study ICT for one year or more therefore following a different pathway. This enables the department to offer a variety of qualifications such as Edexcel Award in Digital Applications or Level 3 depending on students’ capabilities and attainment.
GCSE Results (5A*-C)
99.6% 2010
95.6% 2009
74.1% 2008
68.2% 2007
50.0% 2006
Key Stage 5
The department offers OCR National Level 3 in ICT; this requires students to study ICT in more depth looking at the modern workplace and society, using practical skills and knowledge. The units that they will cover will include Digital Business Communication, Collaborative Working, Problem Solving and Digital Showcasing. The aim is to cover Level 3 Certificate equivalent to one A-Level in one year.