ICT / Computer Studies
The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) department offers a stimulating and dynamic learning environment using the most up to date software and creative technologies available. High-tech classrooms, with interactive whiteboards and high spec peripherals enable students to excel in a multimedia rich society.
The ICT curriculum offered at St Thomas More is designed to give an in-depth knowledge and a wide range of ICT skills. Excellent results and high expectations of success reflect the increased popularity of ICT, with many students now going on to read Computer Science and ICT related courses at universities, including the Russell Group.
Which careers could ICT lead to?
Engineering, finance, accounting, teaching, Computer science, IT Management, Analyst, Business and Software development, Graphic Design among many others.
Teachers
Mr N Ahmed
Mr S Ghoudelbourk - Head of Department
Ms N Saleem
Curriculum Map
KS4 Courses:
Course 1:
OCR GCSE Computer Science (9-1) -J277
Course Outline
The GCSE in Computer Science course is engaging and practical, encouraging creativity and problem solving. It encourages students to develop their understanding and application of the core concepts in computer science. Students also analyse problems in computational terms and devise creative solutions by designing, writing, testing and evaluating programs.
The course places a large emphasis on problem solving using computers. In addition to this skill, students should also have good mathematical skills and be able to apply their inherent methodical and logical approach to problem solving tasks.
|
Year 10 / Component 1:
|
|
|
Year 11 / Component 2:
Course Breakdown Exam:
Two written papers:
Component 1: 1hr 30 min
Component 2: 1hr 30min
Exam Board: OCR
https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/gcse/computer-science-j277-from-2020/
Entry Criteria
Grade 6 or higher in English and Maths.
Complementary subjects
This course can be taken with other subject such as: Science, Mathematics and Physics
What could this qualification lead to?
A wide spectrum of careers is available including software development, science, web design, game development, artificial intelligence, business, data analysis and many more.
Homework
Students receive weekly homework. There is a high volume of practical work to complete and therefore homework standards are set from the very first day.
Enrichment Opportunities:
We run classes after school for students who want to learn to code their own websites, animations, and even video games. Through this activity, you can learn the basics of multiple programming languages or become proficient in one particular one language. We also offer many trips and visits as part of the curriculum enrichment to broaden students understanding and underpin the learning in the classroom.
Course 2:
BTEC Tech Awards Digital Information Technology Level 1 and 2.
Course Outline
The Level 2 Digital Technology is a full two-year programme that provides you with a solid foundation for understanding and applying this subject in your future working lives.
Exam board: Pearson / Edexcel
Structure of the qualifications
The course is comprised of three components: two that are internally assessed 30% each of the total course and one that is externally assessed and counts for 40% of the qualification.
Component 1: Exploring User Interface Design Principles and Project Planning Techniques.
- explore user interface design and development principles
- investigate how to use project-planning techniques to manage a digital project
- discover how to develop and review a digital user interface.
Component 2: Collecting, Presenting and Interpreting Data.
- explore how data impacts individuals and organisations
- conclude and make recommendations on data intelligence
- develop a dashboard using data.
Component 3: Effective Digital Working Practices.
- explore how modern information technology is evolving
- consider legal and ethical issues in data and information sharing
- understand what cybersecurity is and how to safeguard against it
What type of student succeeds at DTIT ?
Pupils need to be creative, have a good understanding or interest for graphic software. It requires resilience and a readiness to work through to find solutions for problems users are faced with daily.
Complementary subjects
What could this qualification lead to?
DTIT is well paired with any of the science or social science subjects: Art, Media and Business.
The BTEC Tech Award in Digital Information Technology is a digital qualification that gives you a real insight into the modern fundamentals of IT.
The course is ideal for learners pursuing a career in IT who wish to gain a broad taste of digital skills and learn content such as User Interface design, Cyber Security, Excel and more.
Homework
Students receive weekly homework. There is a high volume of practical work to complete and therefore homework standards are set from the very first day.
KS 5 Courses:
Course 1
OCR A Level Computer Science H446
Course Outline
A Level Computer Science H446 Learners must take three components to be awarded the OCR A Level in Computer Science.
The assessment overview: Computer systems (01) 40% of total A Level, Algorithms and programming (02*) 40 % of total A Level and Programming project (03*)/ non exam assessment 20% of total A Level.
The course places a large emphasis on problem solving using computers. It is beneficial therefore for students to have prior programming experience using any one of the following languages (Python, VB.NET. C# or Java). In addition to this skill, students should also have good mathematical skills and be able to apply their inherent methodical and logical approach to problem solving tasks.
Hence apart from Computer Science, students who have also studied Maths and Science should possess the required skillset to succeed on this course.
Exam Board: OCR
https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-and-a-level/computer-science-h046-h446-from-2015/
Entry Criteria
Grade 6 or higher in English and Maths and Computer Science.
Complementary subjects
What could this qualification lead to?
A wide spectrum of careers is available including software development, science, web design, game development, artificial intelligence, business, data analysis and many more.
Homework
Students receive weekly homework. There is a high volume of practical work to complete and therefore homework standards are set from the very first day.
Enrichment Opportunities: We run classes after school for students who want to learn to code their own websites, animations, and even video games. Through this activity, you can learn the basics of multiple programming languages or become proficient in one particular one language. We also offer many trips and visits as part of the curriculum enrichment to broaden students understanding and underpin the learning in the classroom.
Course 2:
OCR Cambridge Advanced National in IT Data Analytics
Course Outline
OCR Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification Cambridge Advanced National in IT: Data Analytics (Extended Certificate) is a 2-year linear course which focuses on preparing students for a role as a digital business practitioner through the research and discussion of IT applications which can be used to solve business problems This course is designed to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of data analytics, combining theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience. This course is ideal for those aspiring to pursue a career in data related fields or progress to higher education in information technology. Through both examined and non-examined assessment (NEA) units, you will develop the essential skills and knowledge required to analyse, manage, and interpret data effectively.
Qualification Structure
OCR Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification Cambridge Advanced National in IT: Data Analytics (Extended Certificate)
For this qualification, students must complete five units:
- Two mandatories externally assessed units
- One mandatory NEA unit
- Two optional NEA units
Exam Board: OCR
First Year
Unit F200: Fundamentals of Data Analytics (Exam): covers data type, organising and managing data, accessing data across platforms, legal considerations and key roles in data analytics.
Unit F 201: Big Data and Machine Learning (Exam): Explores big data management, infrastructure, machine learning, AI, legal, ethical and issues in data handling.
Second Year
Internal Assessment: 2 optional units and 1 mandatory unit will be assessed internally and then moderated by the exam board.
Unit F202 Spreadsheet Data Modelling
Spreadsheet Data Modelling (Assignment)- Teaches spreadsheet modelling skills for real-world scenarios, including design, testing and evaluating models.
Additionally, two optional units:
Unit F204: Data and Internet of Everything (IoE). This unit is assessed by an assignment. In this unit you will learn the principles of the Internet of Everything (IoE), and the knowledge and skills required to plan, design and present an IoE solution that meets the needs of a specific client.
Unit F206: Data and Digital Marketing. This unit is assessed by an assignment. In this unit you will learn the principles of digital marketing, and the knowledge and skills required to plan, design, create and review digital marketing material that meets the needs of a specific client.
Time allowed for each unit: 15 hours of supervised time (GLH)
(Work must be completed under teacher supervised conditions)
Complementary subjects
The subjects that complement this course
These subjects might complement this qualification:
|
• A Level Business |
• A-Level Maths |
|
• A Level Computing |
• A Level Psychology |
|
• A Level Geography |
|
The types of courses you may progress to
Both the subject-specific knowledge, understanding and skills, and broader transferable skills developed in this qualification will help you progress to further study in related areas such as:
|
Information Technology |
• Digital Marketing |
|
• Business Analytics |
IT Management |
What are the entry requirements for this course?
You will need: GCSE grade 5 in Mathematics, grade 5 in English Language and a grade Merit or Distinction in Digital Technical (if studied). Preferably all pupils will have some ICT background at Key Stage 4.
Homework / Enrichment Opportunities
Students receive weekly homework. There is a high volume of practical work to complete and therefore homework standards are set from the very first day.
We also offer many trips and visits as part of the curriculum enrichment to broaden students understanding and underpin the learning in the classroom.
KS4 Courses:
Course 1:
OCR GCSE Computer Science (9-1) -J277
Course Outline
The GCSE in Computer Science course is engaging and practical, encouraging creativity and problem solving. It encourages students to develop their understanding and application of the core concepts in computer science. Students also analyse problems in computational terms and devise creative solutions by designing, writing, testing and evaluating programs.
The course places a large emphasis on problem solving using computers. In addition to this skill, students should also have good mathematical skills and be able to apply their inherent methodical and logical approach to problem solving tasks.
|
Year 10 / Component 1:
|
|
|
Year 11 / Component 2:
Course Breakdown Exam:
Two written papers:
Component 1: 1hr 30 min
Component 2: 1hr 30min
Exam Board: OCR
https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/gcse/computer-science-j277-from-2020/
Entry Criteria
Grade 6 or higher in English and Maths.
Complementary subjects
This course can be taken with other subject such as: Science, Mathematics and Physics
What could this qualification lead to?
A wide spectrum of careers is available including software development, science, web design, game development, artificial intelligence, business, data analysis and many more.
Homework
Students receive weekly homework. There is a high volume of practical work to complete and therefore homework standards are set from the very first day.
Enrichment Opportunities:
We run classes after school for students who want to learn to code their own websites, animations, and even video games. Through this activity, you can learn the basics of multiple programming languages or become proficient in one particular one language. We also offer many trips and visits as part of the curriculum enrichment to broaden students understanding and underpin the learning in the classroom.
Course 2:
BTEC Tech Awards Digital Information Technology Level 1 and 2.
Course Outline
The Level 2 Digital Technology is a full two-year programme that provides you with a solid foundation for understanding and applying this subject in your future working lives.
Exam board: Pearson / Edexcel
Structure of the qualifications
The course is comprised of three components: two that are internally assessed 30% each of the total course and one that is externally assessed and counts for 40% of the qualification.
Component 1: Exploring User Interface Design Principles and Project Planning Techniques.
- explore user interface design and development principles
- investigate how to use project-planning techniques to manage a digital project
- discover how to develop and review a digital user interface.
Component 2: Collecting, Presenting and Interpreting Data.
- explore how data impacts individuals and organisations
- conclude and make recommendations on data intelligence
- develop a dashboard using data.
Component 3: Effective Digital Working Practices.
- explore how modern information technology is evolving
- consider legal and ethical issues in data and information sharing
- understand what cybersecurity is and how to safeguard against it
What type of student succeeds at DTIT ?
Pupils need to be creative, have a good understanding or interest for graphic software. It requires resilience and a readiness to work through to find solutions for problems users are faced with daily.
Complementary subjects
What could this qualification lead to?
DTIT is well paired with any of the science or social science subjects: Art, Media and Business.
The BTEC Tech Award in Digital Information Technology is a digital qualification that gives you a real insight into the modern fundamentals of IT.
The course is ideal for learners pursuing a career in IT who wish to gain a broad taste of digital skills and learn content such as User Interface design, Cyber Security, Excel and more.
Homework
Students receive weekly homework. There is a high volume of practical work to complete and therefore homework standards are set from the very first day.
KS 5 Courses:
Course 1
OCR A Level Computer Science H446
Course Outline
A Level Computer Science H446 Learners must take three components to be awarded the OCR A Level in Computer Science.
The assessment overview: Computer systems (01) 40% of total A Level, Algorithms and programming (02*) 40 % of total A Level and Programming project (03*)/ non exam assessment 20% of total A Level.
The course places a large emphasis on problem solving using computers. It is beneficial therefore for students to have prior programming experience using any one of the following languages (Python, VB.NET. C# or Java). In addition to this skill, students should also have good mathematical skills and be able to apply their inherent methodical and logical approach to problem solving tasks.
Hence apart from Computer Science, students who have also studied Maths and Science should possess the required skillset to succeed on this course.
Exam Board: OCR
https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-and-a-level/computer-science-h046-h446-from-2015/
Entry Criteria
Grade 6 or higher in English and Maths and Computer Science.
Complementary subjects
What could this qualification lead to?
A wide spectrum of careers is available including software development, science, web design, game development, artificial intelligence, business, data analysis and many more.
Homework
Students receive weekly homework. There is a high volume of practical work to complete and therefore homework standards are set from the very first day.
Enrichment Opportunities: We run classes after school for students who want to learn to code their own websites, animations, and even video games. Through this activity, you can learn the basics of multiple programming languages or become proficient in one particular one language. We also offer many trips and visits as part of the curriculum enrichment to broaden students understanding and underpin the learning in the classroom.
Course2:
OCR Cambridge Advanced National in IT Data Analytics
Course Outline
OCR Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification Cambridge Advanced National in IT: Data Analytics (Extended Certificate) is a 2-year linear course which focuses on preparing students for a role as a digital business practitioner through the research and discussion of IT applications which can be used to solve business problems This course is designed to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of data analytics, combining theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience. This course is ideal for those aspiring to pursue a career in data related fields or progress to higher education in information technology. Through both examined and non-examined assessment (NEA) units, you will develop the essential skills and knowledge required to analyse, manage, and interpret data effectively.
Qualification Structure
OCR Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification Cambridge Advanced National in IT: Data Analytics (Extended Certificate)
For this qualification, students must complete five units:
- Two mandatories externally assessed units
- One mandatory NEA unit
- Two optional NEA units
Exam Board: OCR
First Year
Unit F200: Fundamentals of Data Analytics (Exam): covers data type, organising and managing data, accessing data across platforms, legal considerations and key roles in data analytics.
Unit F 201: Big Data and Machine Learning (Exam): Explores big data management, infrastructure, machine learning, AI, legal, ethical and issues in data handling.
Second Year
Internal Assessment: 2 optional units and 1 mandatory unit will be assessed internally and then moderated by the exam board.
Unit F202 Spreadsheet Data Modelling
Spreadsheet Data Modelling (Assignment)- Teaches spreadsheet modelling skills for real-world scenarios, including design, testing and evaluating models.
Additionally, two optional units:
Unit F204: Data and Internet of Everything (IoE). This unit is assessed by an assignment. In this unit you will learn the principles of the Internet of Everything (IoE), and the knowledge and skills required to plan, design and present an IoE solution that meets the needs of a specific client.
Unit F206: Data and Digital Marketing. This unit is assessed by an assignment. In this unit you will learn the principles of digital marketing, and the knowledge and skills required to plan, design, create and review digital marketing material that meets the needs of a specific client.
Time allowed for each unit: 15 hours of supervised time (GLH)
(Work must be completed under teacher supervised conditions)
Complementary subjects
The subjects that complement this course
These subjects might complement this qualification:
|
• A Level Business |
• A-Level Maths |
|
• A Level Computing |
• A Level Psychology |
|
• A Level Geography |
|
The types of courses you may progress to
Both the subject-specific knowledge, understanding and skills, and broader transferable skills developed in this qualification will help you progress to further study in related areas such as:
|
Information Technology |
• Digital Marketing |
|
• Business Analytics |
IT Management |
What are the entry requirements for this course?
You will need: GCSE grade 5 in Mathematics, grade 5 in English Language and a grade Merit or Distinction in Digital Technical (if studied). Preferably all pupils will have some ICT background at Key Stage 4.
Homework / Enrichment Opportunities
Students receive weekly homework. There is a high volume of practical work to complete and therefore homework standards are set from the very first day.
We also offer many trips and visits as part of the curriculum enrichment to broaden students understanding and underpin the learning in the classroom.