“Computers are incredibly fast, accurate and stupid; humans are incredibly slow, inaccurate and brilliant; together they are powerful beyond imagination.”

Albert Einstein

Click here for IT & Computer Science curriculum outline

Why do we study IT?

Computing at Studley High is designed to motivate and engage students in developing their awareness of how computers have changed the world that we live in. We provide a curriculum that enables students to be creative as well as developing their computational thinking. We encourage students to think about the appropriate use of IT in and out of school and stress the importance of using technology safely, responsibly and securely throughout.

A high-quality computing education equips students to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Computing has deep links with mathematics, science and design and technology, and provides insights into both natural and artificial systems. The core of computing is computer science, in which students 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, students are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Computing also ensures that students become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.

IT programme of study at Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)

In KS3, all students have one lesson of computing per week. The focus of learning is on capability – the appropriate use of IT skills in a given situation. Students are encouraged to think about their use of ICT and to consider whether their work is suitable for audience and purpose. It will prepare learners to make informed decisions about further learning opportunities and career choices and to develop IT skills to participate effectively in society and employment.

Our Key Stage 3 units of study are grouped together under a key heading for each half term, this also allows our students to make connections between the different units and encourage deeper thinking. 

In Year 7, the order of study is as follows:

  • Using a computer safely, effectively and responsibly.
  • Understanding computer hardware  
  • Introduction to computational thinking with Scratch 
  • Spreadsheet Modelling with Office skills 
  • Web Design with HTML
  • Micro Bit Madness 
  • Animation

In Year 8, the order of study is as follows:

  • Using computer safely, effectively and responsibly
  • Understanding computers and networks
  • Data representation in Computing 
  • Games design and programming in Scratch
  • HTML & CSS for website development
  • Introduction to Python
  • Multimedia – Creating and editing video and sound

In Year 9, the order of study is as follows:

  • Programming and Algorithms 
  • Web Design and databases 
  • IT skills for Business 
  • Computing logic 
  • Data representation 
  • Graphics 

IT programme of study at Key Stage 4 (Years 10-11)

At KS4 students have the option to continue their studies by following either GCSE Computer Science or a Level 1/2 Cambridge National in IMedia.

GCSE Computer Science: 

In Computer Science students work with real-world, practical programming techniques that will give them a good understanding of what makes technology work. This course is relevant to the modern, changing world of computing and is designed to boost computing skills for the 21st century. Students will use ‘computational thinking’ and learn the theory to apply to real life situations.

Level 1/2 Cambridge National IMedia: 

IMedia focuses on ICT as a powerful tool for real-life use within a wide range of applications. It encourages students to become independent users of ICT, making appropriate choices of software and tools to be used. Students are expected to be able to plan and manage the integration of tools from different software. The course is designed to follow on from the KS3 syllabus with a strong emphasis on producing work suitable for both audience and purpose. It promotes creative use of applications and the real-life, outcome orientated emphasis is involving and stimulating.

Homework expectations

Homework is an important aspect of our curriculum.  Not only does it offer the opportunity for students to consolidate their learning within lessons, it also offers a chance for them to enhance their understanding of key topics and fundamental skills outside of the classroom.  At Key Stage 3, students are expected to complete one extended homework project per half term and spend around 2 hours on this piece.  At Key Stage 4, students are expected to complete one piece of homework a fortnight, with at least 30 minutes spent completing each piece.

How can parents and guardians support at home?

Parents can support students at home by encouraging them to complete all homework tasks on time. You can also use the following websites to help students revise: 

At key times during the year students will be provided with further revision tasks and resources to help them to revisit topics and consolidate their understanding. This will help them prepare for class assessments and will be made available through the class Teams site. 

Extra-curricular opportunities

  • Students have the opportunity to attend a Computing extra curricular club. The focus for each half term varies and provides opportunities for students to develop and experiment with producing IT products for a broad range of situations. 
  • BIMA Digital Day 
  • Safer Internet Day