Key Stage 3 Computer Science Curriculum Intent

At Key Stage 3 we strive to provide high-quality computing education to equip pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Computing has deep links with Mathematics, Science, Design and Technology by providing insights into both natural and artificial systems. The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. 

Building on this knowledge and understanding, pupils are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of digital content. Computing also ensures that pupils become digitally literate so that ideas can be developed through the use of information and communication technology at a level suitable for the future workplace and as an active participant in a digital world. 

AtMeopham, we aim to ensure that all pupils:  

• can understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation  

• can analyse problems in computational terms and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs in order to solve such problems  

• can evaluate and apply information technology, including new or unfamiliar technologies’ analytically to solve problems  

• are responsible, competent, confident and creative users of digital technology

Within Key Stage 3, students are taught three distinct strands within Computing, each of which is complementary to the others: Computer Science (CS), Information Technology (IT) and Digital Literacy (DL). The computing department aims to develop character by ensuring that all pupils are:

• able to complete the fundamental skills within the various pieces of software by stretching and challenging students to ensure that they can develop the more advanced skills within the software being used. ​Students develop conceptual understanding and the ability to recall and apply knowledge rapidly and accurately;

• able to write their own programs and confidently use application software regularly test their products and demonstrate resilience through problem solving until they have created a solution. 

Technology is advancing at a phenomenal rate as products are being developed or upgraded rapidly. As a consequence, there is an increased amount of threats both socially and technologically. Therefore, we ensure that we regularly reference these dangers and ensure that students develop a much greater awareness and understanding of these and know how to become more secure and safe whilst being online. Students learn about their rights and responsibilities in addition to the various legislation, which includes The Protection from Harassment Act, The Computer Misuse Act and The Data Protection Act. Students are also taught about what they should do if they find themselves or know of others who are having any online issues. 

As a department, we believe that students should develop their understanding and skills by becoming very resilient. We provide a range of differentiated tasks in order to allow students to grapple with concepts and make mistakes in a safe environment. This helps to generate a real “buzz” in the air as students challenge themselves and each other at every opportunity.

 Key Stage 3 - Computer Science Overview