Computer Science and IT
- Mr M Barber- Lead Teacher of Computer Science and IT
- Mr C Payne – Teacher of Computer Science and IT
- Mr M Birchall – Teacher of Computer Science and IT
As a pinnacle member of the STREAM focus at SST Maidstone, the Computer Science and IT department leads an inspiring curriculum which allows students to develop knowledge and skills through theory topics, as well as practical programming. Students are challenged to consider current trends in technology such as Artificial Intelligence and Online Safety and the impacts they have on society.
The Computer Science and IT department runs a Coding club each week with a number of students attending. Our Computer Science prefects lead the online safety areas of the Personal Development programme of study in the school and work closely with the department to share current concerns in the school.
The department has strong collaborative links with other departments, such as:
- Wider discussions on place value with Year 7 Binary numbers as Year 7 study place value in Mathematics.
- Learning about geometry and angles during KS3 programming units.
- Producing flow diagrams for programming projects which are furthered in DT lessons.
Curriculum Intent
At SST the Computer Science Department aims to provide a curriculum which is practical, innovative, and challenging.
Students will be provided with the skills and qualities that support with not just the learning that takes place in the classroom, but also the knowledge and confidence to handle digital literacy at home and in any future sector of work that students find themselves in.
We understand that we have an obligation to acknowledge the role we play in students use of technology and to provide all students with the ability to use technology respectfully, responsibly and securely regardless of digital divide.
Transition Information
We understand that transition between any Key Stages needs to ensure students are well supported. The strategies specific to Computer Science can be found below:
Key Stage 2 to Key Stage 3
Students are provided with additional support where they may not have covered the National Curriculum in its entirety, or where there are noticeable gaps in students’ knowledge.
Students are also provided with additional iPad, iMac, and Microsoft Office support where these forms of technology may not be as well embedded in students’ understanding as other platforms.
Key Stage 3 to Key Stage 4
Throughout Key Stage 3, students are given guidance on the differences between ICT and Computer Science. During Key Stage 3 and the Year 9 Foundation Year, students are educated on how each subject will be explored at GCSE and beyond.
Key Stage 4 to Key Stage 5
During the GCSE course, students are given an awareness of the application of IT and Computer Science through A Level and beyond. Particularly the extent of the programming elements and how these are further explored as students continue their Computer Science and IT learning journeys.
Links with Sixth Form students at other schools on the campus allows discussion with GCSE students so they can find out more about what options they have available when successfully completing the course.
Beyond Key Stage 5
Students are given opportunities to look at different routes to continue to learn Computer Science and IT beyond the Sixth form, including the exploration of careers, job advertisements and university experience workshops.
Unit Plans
Extended Curriculum Opportunities
Click here to view the Extended Curriculum Opportunities.
