Computer Science

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The Computer Science curriculum is designed to give pupils the opportunity to: -

The Computer Science curriculum is designed to provide all students with the opportunity to:

• Develop computational thinking skills through structured problem-solving
• Explore the inner workings of computers, including hardware and software components.
• Design, write, and evaluate algorithms and programsusing modern programming languages.
• Understand how networks and digital systems communicate and operate securely.
• Learn how to use technology safely, legally, and ethically.
• Make informed connections between Computer Science and its role in society and the wider world.

We aim to do this by:

• Delivering a well-sequenced curriculum that builds on KS2 foundations and deepens understanding at KS3 and KS4.
• Introducing core topics such as algorithms, programming, networking, and cybersecurity early on, to prepare pupils for further study.
• Embedding interactive and hands-on learning through tools like Python and App Lab at KS3.
• Providing enrichment opportunities, including participation in Digital Day,Computer Science Education Week, and STEM-linked activities.
• Offering extra-curricular clubs and competitions, such as the CyberFirst Girls Competition and a KS3 coding club, to develop skills beyond the classroom.

What do we expect students to gain from studying Computer Science?

• The ability to think logically and solve problems independently through programming and algorithm design.
• Confidence in using technology and digital tools, preparing them for a wide range of careers in the digital world.
• A clear understanding of how Computer Science shapes society, influences global development, and supports innovation.
• A genuine interest and passion for the subject, inspiring students to pursue further study at GCSE and beyond.

Further Curriculum Information

More further resources:

Assessment steps

Computer science knowledge organiser

Curriculum Milestones Computer science

Y7 Knowledge Organiser KS3

Y8 Knowledge Organiser

Y9 Python_Knowledge Organiser

Programme of Study Specifications

• KS3: National Curriculum for Computing
• KS4: OCR GCSE Computer Science (J277) – including Systems Architecture, Algorithms, Programming, Cybersecurity, and more.
  OCR Computer Science Specification (J277)

Useful Revision Resources

• BBC Bitesize – Computing (KS3)
• BBC Bitesize – Computer Science (GCSE)
• KnowItAll Ninja – Computer Science(login required)
• Smart Revise – OCR Computer Science(login required)
• OCR Specification J277 – Full PDF

Coding Platforms & Resources

• Mission exercism.orgtime2code.today
• Time2Code – time2code.today
  CS Newsb
• Python Principles time2code.todaypythonprinciples.com
  Python Programming (pythonprogramming.net)– Offers tutorials, projects, and guides for Python across all levels
• Replit – “100 Days of Code: Python”– A guided daily challenge to build real Python projects; no setup required and great for beginners
  replit.com/learn/100-days-of-python
• Python Sponge
• Exercism (Python track)– Free exercises with automated feedback and mentorship for Python learners replit.com
• GoCodeIt
• Social Media
• Follow our department for updates and inspiration:
  📱Instagram: @HalewoodComputingandBusiness