Curriculum

Resources for all areas of the ICT curriculum are delivered through our Online Learning and Slemish VLE (Moodle) websites.

Key Stage 3

At Key Stage, ICT is taught as a discrete subject. The programme of study is delivered online to encourage independent learning. KS3 Curriculum materials have been imaginatively written, and are designed to be stimulating and relevant to all students. Students develop projects individually and in groups throughout the year. Self and peer assessment and evaluation ensures pupils work to the best of their ability throughout the year. Throughout key Stage 3 pupils gain an understanding and develop skills in: Word Processing, Desk Top Publishing, Spreadsheets, Email Systems, Web browsing, Web site development and graphics packages. At the end of each, pupils are awarded a level in line with the national standards level descriptors. 

GCSE

We offer students the full ICT course by CCEA. Students study 3 main areas; Applications Software, Understanding of ICT Systems in Everyday Life and Implications of ICT for individuals, organisations and society.2 external exams in the above areas account for 40% of the overall GCSE.

Pupils complete 6 pieces of coursework which contributes to 60% of the overall GCSE. Students make use of the following software:

• Web creation software
• Web browsing software
• DTP/Word Processing software
• Database Software
• Spreadsheet software
• Graphics

GCSE CIDA

Pupils complete the Certificate in Digital Applications (Edexcel) throughout year 11 and 12. The first unit, “Using ICT” is studied during year 11 and pupils gain 1 GCSE as a result (AIDA – Award in Digital Applications). The second unit “Multimedia” is studied in year 12 with pupils gaining the 2nd GCSE (CIDA). All materials are available online to promote independent and autonomous learning.

Students are assessed at the end of year through 2 external exams. (1 theory and 1 practical assessment.)

A LEVEL ICT

Using work-related contexts, innovative teaching and assessment methods, the applied ICT awards offer a broad introduction to this vocational area. These awards are designed to provide a progression route to higher education and further training for employment. The course outline is structured to give students plenty of choice to form qualifications which can be highly individual to their personal aptitudes, interests and ambitions.

We offer Applied ICT at A level (OCR) with students completing the following units.

AS Level

• Unit1: Using ICT to Communicate (Portfolio)
• Unit2: How Organisations Use ICT (External Exam)
• Unit3: ICT Solutions for Individuals and Society (Portfolio)

A2 Level

• Unit 9: Working to a Brief (External Exam)
• Unit 10: Numerical Modelling Using Spreadsheets (Portfolio)
• Unit 14: Developing and Creating Websites (Portfolio)