Computing & ICT

ICT begins at Queen Elizabeth's School with pupils completing an induction programme where they learn about how best to use the School's facilities, including home access and email. This includes the responsible use of the internet. These lessons involve both independent learning and group presentations.

At Key Stage 3 pupils establish themselves as confident users of ICT by developing their skills in presentation, communication, data-modelling, control and by studying the social and ethical aspects of ICT. Year 9 pupils further develop their confidence by commencing the GCSE in ICT. Their learning activities encompass the Key Stage 3 National Curriculum but also new experiences, such as more sophisticated flash animation, computer graphics and sound manipulation. We expect boys at this age to be responsible ICT users who can solve problems independently.

In Year 10 boys improve their project-management skills in a project such as developing a website for a business scenario. They analyse, design, implement, test and document a project from scratch for use as their main piece of GCSE coursework. Year 11 pupils prepare themselves for the two final GCSE exams with independent study and class-based revision activities.

In the Sixth Form the Computer Science A Level provides an entirely new challenge. In Year 12 the course introduces the technical world of computers, covering topics including pure binary arithmetic, programming and the topologies and hardware of networks. Year 13 brings more sophistication into students' knowledge and understanding. After interviewing, observing and examining paper work for a real problem, they devise a programmed solution, which is tested and documented.

Pupils studying for the Applied ICT A Level pupils develop their project-management skills for projects including web design and multimedia products. They gain industry-standard knowledge, understanding and skills. Pupils usually visit an IT industry exhibition to gather information for a project.

Additional help and support in ICT is widely available at QE. All pupils at Key Stage 3 have access to the ICT suites at lunch times, and there is a clinic for boys experiencing particular difficulties. Boys in Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11) have access to the ERL at lunch times, where they can work independently or seek assistance.

In Year 12 Computer Science students visit a manufacturer of computers for the defence industry, where they attend a lecture on the industry. All boys on this course can participate in the British Computer Science Olympiad.

^ Top