The Computing department aims to promote the creative use of digital applications and ability to use programming languages to create solutions to IT problems. We equip learners with the skills they need to live, learn, and earn in the 21st century by developing their ability to organise themselves and their work and by encouraging them to reflect critically on their own and others’ use of Computing.

The guiding principles underpinning computing at key stage 3 is to develop students who are confident users of technology and IT tools, in addition the curriculum aims to develop critical thinkers who understand the digitally connected world.  The topics covered during their program of study will support their learning across the curriculum and prepare them for lifelong learning.

The intention is to ensure students at Manor Drive Academy can use the IT tools available in a safe and efficient manner, enabling them to make progress not only in computing but also across the curriculum. Each lesson is designed to allow for differentiation and stretch and challenge whilst supporting the needs of all users. 

Raising student aspiration is a key focus and throughout years 7, 8 and 9 several key strands will provide students the opportunity to develop their digital literacy in preparation for continuation of their studies at key stage 4 and beyond, including post-16 study and the world of work.

Students will develop understanding of digital tools used in the workplace such as Microsoft Office suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Access) in addition to using communication software such as Microsoft Outlook and Teams. Students are encouraged to develop confidence and the ability to explore applications and work independently.

Cross curricular links ensure students can gain understanding of how important skills can be embedded through the study of units related to subjects such as art and design technology. Students will learn how to use graphical tools demonstrating creativity to create appropriate 2D and 3D graphical products. 

As their curriculum journey continues throughout key stage 3 and 4 students will have a thoroughly interactive experience, developing technical skills in data interpretation, data presentation and data protection. They will gain an understanding of the importance of internet safety and the increasing threats posed by cybercrime. They will develop an understanding of cyber security and how security measures can mitigate cybercrime along with legal and ethical considerations.

Students will learn how computers work and how they communicate globally. They will understand why computational thinking helps us solve problems and how to create algorithms and programs to achieve our goals. For programming skills, they will start in Year 7 with Scratch, a block-based language, progressing to Python, a text-based language in Years 8 and 9. They will start by understanding the basic programming concepts, building on this knowledge each year.

Students will develop an understanding of virtual learning environments and how cloud technologies allow teams to work together. With the rapid development of new technologies there is a growing need for individuals who can master and manipulate new technologies, the curriculum encourages students to become discerning users of technology developing a broad range of skills, knowledge and understanding to give students the skills they will need in the modern world.

The principal impact of the KS3 curriculum is to prepare students for either pursuing the WJEC vocational qualification in IT and embed the necessary skills to support their curriculum options and future education and career pathways.

Extra-Curricular Activities

Minecraft Club: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday lunchtimes.

KS4 Workshops: Tuesday (3:35pm to 4:35pm) & Friday (2:00pm to 3:00pm)

Road Map

Year 7 - Unit 1: The Digital Citizen

Year 7 - Unit 2 - Detailed Scheme: Clear Messaging in Media - Support for a Cause

Year 7 - Unit 3: Computing Systems and Networks

Year 7 - Unit 4: Data Modelling (Spreadsheets

Year 7 - Unit 5: Multimedia Presentations – Using PowerPoint

Year 7 - Unit 6: Programming essentials in Scratch: part I

Year 7 - Unit 7: Using media – Gaining support for a Cause

 

Year 8 - Unit 1: Creating Vector Graphics – Inkscape

Year 8 - Unit 2: Computer Systems & Data Science

Year 8 - Unit 3: Developing for the Web

Year 8 - Unit 4: Data Representation – From Clay to Silicon

Year 8 - Unit 5: Programming Essentials in Scratch – part II

Year 8 - Unit 6: Mobile App Development

Year 8 - Unit: Exploring Databases with Microsoft Access

 

Year 9 - Unit 1: Developing 3D Animation

Year 9 - Unit 2: Introduction to Cybersecurity

Year 9 - Unit 3: Spreadsheets

Year 9 - Unit 4  : Introduction to Python programming

Year 9 - Unit 5: Impact of Technology

Year 9 - Unit 6: Exploring Databases with Microsoft Access