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, programming 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 the controlled assessment and prepare themselves for the final GCSE exam 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.

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 CR3 at lunch times, where they can work independently or seek assistance.

Animation and Programming Clubs run at lunch times.

All boys on the computer science course can participate in the British Computer Science Olympiad. All boys at key stage 3 can participate in the national Animation competition.

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