Computing and Computer Science
"The best way to predict the future is to invent it." — Alan Kay
Subject Overview:
Computer Science will encourage students to understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts, including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms, and data representation. Analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems, including designing, writing and debugging programs. Think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically. Understand the components that make up digital systems, and how they communicate with one another and with other systems. Understand the impacts of digital technology to the individual and to wider society apply mathematical skills relevant to Computer Science.
Curriculum Intent
Our Computing and Computer Science curriculum is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and digital literacy required to thrive in an increasingly digital world. We aim to develop confident, critical thinkers who can not only use technology effectively and responsibly, but also understand how it works and how it shapes the modern world.
Through a broad and ambitious curriculum, students are introduced to key areas including computer systems, programming, data representation, cyber security, networks, and the ethical impacts of technology. Students are taught both practical computing skills and the theoretical foundations of computer science, ensuring a strong base for further study or future employment in the digital sector.
We are committed to developing problem-solving skills, computational thinking, and creativity. Our curriculum encourages resilience, logical reasoning, and precision—essential attributes for coding and digital innovation. At every stage, students are challenged appropriately and supported to progress, regardless of their starting point.
By the end of their computing education, students will be digitally literate, safe and responsible users of technology, and equipped with the skills needed to participate fully in a digital society. Whether pursuing GCSE/A-Level Computer Science or simply becoming more informed digital citizens, our students leave with a deep understanding of computing and its relevance to their everyday lives and future careers.
Curriculum Implementation
Our Computing and Computer Science curriculum is carefully sequenced to ensure that students build knowledge and skills progressively from Key Stage 3 through to GCSE. The curriculum is designed to develop both theoretical understanding and practical competence, with each topic revisited and deepened over time to embed learning and encourage mastery.
At Key Stage 3, all students receive regular computing lessons that cover the foundations of IT and computer science, including algorithms, programming, spreadsheets, data representation, computer systems, and digital literacy. Lessons are planned to introduce core concepts while developing essential skills such as logical thinking, problem-solving, and safe use of technology.
At Key Stage 4, students who choose GCSE Computer Science follow a structured curriculum aligned with the national specifications. They study topics such as computational thinking, networks, cyber security, and data structures, alongside practical programming in languages such as Python. Learning is supported by high-quality teaching resources, real-world applications, and regular opportunities for students to apply their skills through projects and challenges.
To ensure high standards and student engagement, teaching is led by subject specialists who use a range of strategies, including direct instruction, collaborative work, and hands-on programming tasks. Learning is regularly assessed through low-stakes quizzes, project work, and formal assessments, enabling staff to identify gaps in understanding and provide targeted support.
We also provide opportunities for enrichment beyond the classroom, including coding clubs, competitions, and links with industry, helping to bring computing to life and inspire students to explore future careers in the digital sector.
Curriculum Impact
The impact of our Computing and Computer Science curriculum is seen in the confidence, independence, and digital competence our students demonstrate both in and beyond the classroom. Through a carefully structured programme, students develop a secure understanding of computing principles, programming, data, networks, and the ethical use of technology.
Students make strong progress, with many choosing to continue their studies at GCSE and beyond. Our pupils achieve consistently good GCSE results, reflecting both their hard work and the strength of teaching within the department. These outcomes enable students to pursue further study in Computer Science or related disciplines, as well as supporting wider academic success.
Alongside academic achievement, students acquire a broad skill set—including problem-solving, logical thinking, and creativity—which prepares them for further education and a wide range of careers in the digital and technological sectors. Our curriculum also fosters transferable skills valued across all subjects and professions.
Through regular assessment, we monitor understanding, identify gaps, and adapt our teaching to ensure all learners are supported and challenged appropriately. Pupils become increasingly resilient and reflective, capable of debugging, evaluating, and refining their own work.
Beyond qualifications, our students leave school as digitally literate young people, able to use technology safely, responsibly, and effectively. They understand the opportunities and challenges of a digital world and are equipped to navigate it with confidence—whether in higher education, the workplace, or everyday life.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7–8)
In Year 7 students study:
- Using Computer Safely, Effectively and Responsibility and Touch Typing (File Management, Social Networking, Keeping Data Safe, Using Email, Searching the Web)
- Spreadsheets Modelling (Creating Financial Model, What if Scenarios, Conditional Formatting and Validation, Macros and Charts)
- Scratch (Introduction, sequence and Variables, Selection, Operators, Count Controlled Loop, Problem Solving)
- Experience AI (What is AI, How Computers Learn from Data, Bias in Bias Out, Decision Tree, Solving Problems with ML Models, Model Cards and Careers)
- IDEA (Bronze Award)
- Murder Mystery (Database Project)
- Mini Project/ Clear Messaging in Digital Media (Get the Message Across, Poster Making, Brand, Creating a Brand, Adding Content, Presenting)
In Year 8 students study:
- Understanding Computers (Elements of a computer, The CPU, Understanding Binary, Binary Addition, Storage Devices, Convergence and New Technologies)
- Flowcharts. Design, use and evaluate computational abstractions that model the state and behaviour of real-world problems and physical systems.
- Introduction To Python (Introducing Python, Numbers and Arithmetic, Selection, Writing Algorithms, While Loops, Searching)
- HTML and Website Development (HTML, CSS, Design, Development, Creating a web form)
- Networks - understanding the hardware components that make up a computer system.
Key Stage 4 (Years 9 - 11) Programming Language used: Python
In Year 9 students study:
- Programming fundamentals and Data Types
- Systems Architecture, CPU Performance and Embedded Systems
- Memory, Storage, Units, Data Storage and Compression
- Networks and Topology, Protocols and Layers
- Independent Coding Projects
In Year 10 students study:
- Units/Binary, Data Storage and Compression
- Network Security
- Computational Thinking, Algorithms, Searching and Sorting
- Boolean Logic
- Ethics and Law
In Year 11 students study:
- Defensive Design and Testing
- Revisit: Programming fundamentals, data types, Additional Programming techniques
- Revisit: Ethics and Law - in particular essay writing skills
- Programming Languages and IDEs
- System Software
Final Exams (Year 11)
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Component 01: Computer systems (80 marks / 1 hour 30 minutes exam) 50% of final mark |
Component 02: Computational thinking, algorithms and programming (80 marks / 1 hour 30 minutes exam) 50 % of final mark |
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1.1 Systems architecture
1.2 Memory and storage
1.3 Computer networks, connections and protocols
1.4 Network security
1.5 Systems software
1.6 Ethical, legal, cultural and environmental impacts of digital technology
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2.1 Algorithms
2.2 Programming fundamentals
2.3 Producing robust programs
2.4 Boolean Logic
2.5 Programming Languages and Integrated Development Environments
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Click here for further information from OCR
Key Stage 5 (Years 12–13)
In Year 12 students study:
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Theory |
Component 03: Programming Project (Students will choose their own project) |
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1.1.1 Structure and function of the processor 1.1.2 Types of Processors 1.1.3 Input, Output and Storage (Flip Learning) 1.2.4 Types of Programming Languages 1.2.1 Operating Systems 1.2.3 Software Development 1.2.2 Application Generation 1.3.2 Databases 1.3.3 Networks 1.4.1 Data Types 1.3.4 Web Technologies 1.4.3 Boolean Algebra 2.2.1 Programming Techniques 2.2.2 Computational Methods |
Analysis of the problem Problem identification Stakeholders Research the problem Specify the proposed solution Design of the solution Decompose the problem Describe the solution Describe the approach to testing Developing the solution |
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In Year 13 students study:
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Theory |
Component 03: Programming Project (continue) |
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2.1.1 Thinking Abstractly 2.1.2 Thinking Ahead 2.1.3 Thinking Procedurally 2.1.4 Thinking Logically 2.1.5 Thinking Concurrently 1.4.2 Data Structures 1.3.1 Compression, Encryption and Hashing 2.3.1 Algorithms 1.5.1 Computing related legislation 1.5.2 Ethical, Moral and Cultural Issues |
Programming Project (continue) Developing the solution Iterative development process Testing to inform development Evaluation Testing to inform evaluation Success of the solution Describe the final product Maintenance and development |
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Click here for further information from OCR
Enrichment Opportunities
- External Speaker: Cyber Security Annual talk from Neil Thomas - Claranet
- Webinar, followed by a Competition: AI and Robotics Seminar for Year 7 and 8
- Club: Coding club for Year 7
- AstroPi competition for Year 7
- Hackathon for Year 9, 10 and 11
- Competition: British Olympiad Informatics competition - KS4 and KS5 - top students
- Competition: Bebras
- Competition: Python coding with Pearson
- Joint trip with Maths to Bletchley Park
- External Speaker: Formula 1 Engineer - Hishaam Ashraf talking about the different elements of Engineering and how Computer Science is helpful.
- Emerging Engineering Experience: For Year 12 students, the opportunity to develop their own project over a year and then present this to Engineers at Rutherford Laboratory.
Curious about the curriculum
Useful websites
- freeCodeCamp – Offers a comprehensive, project-based curriculum in web development, data visualization, APIs, and more.
- Hyperskill (JetBrains Academy) – Learn by building real-world projects in Python, Java, Kotlin, JavaScript, Go, C++, SQL, and more.
- CS Circles – An in-browser Python tutorial for beginners that combines concise lessons with interactive exercises.
Apps
- SoloLearn, Mimo, Programming Hub, Tynker – Bite‑sized coding lessons
- Lightbot – Teaches programming logic via puzzle mechanics; a fun curriculum supplement
Videos
- Computerphile, “Videos about computers & computer stuff”
- Ben Eater, Computer hardware/assembly - https://www.youtube.com/c/BenEater
- The Coding Train - Creative coding video tutorials on subjects ranging from the basics
Podcasts
- Software Engineering Daily – Interviews on real-world engineering, dev roles, and evolving infrastructure
- JavaScript Jabber – Weekly deep‑dives into JS frameworks, tools, and best practices
- Front End Happy Hour – Casual panel chats for front‑end devs from top companies
- Code Newbie – Stories from people on their coding journey
Looking for something to read
Key Stage 3:
- "How to Be a Coder" by Kiki Prottsman
- A friendly, illustrated guide to the basics of algorithms, logic, loops, and coding—without needing a computer.
- "DKfindout! Computers"
- Short, engaging facts and great images—ideal for reluctant or EAL readers who want bite-sized info.
- "Computational Fairy Tales" by Jeremy Kubica
- CS concepts like sorting algorithms, logic, and loops—told through fun fantasy stories.
- "The Way Things Work Now" by David Macaulay
- Fantastic for visual learners—explains how digital and physical systems function in a very accessible way.
- "Python for Kids" by Jason R. Briggs
- Real-world Python coding explained clearly—best for students ready to go beyond block-based languages.
Key Stage 4:
- "Computational Thinking for the Modern Problem Solver" by David D. Riley and Kenny A. Hunt
- Introduces the mindset behind computing
- Ideal for students aiming for Grades 8–9 or bridging to A-Level
- "Hello World: How to Be Human in the Age of the Machine" by Hannah Fry
- A thought-provoking and accessible read on how algorithms affect daily life
- Great for discussing the Ethical, Legal, Cultural, and Environmental topics
- "The Code Book" by Simon Singh
- History of cryptography and cybersecurity
- Ties in well with Unit 1.3 – Cyber Security and encryption
- “What did Ada Lovelace’s Program Do?” Article about Ada Lovelace’s work
Key Stage 5:
- "The Pragmatic Programmer" by Andrew Hunt and David Thomas. A classic on best practices in software development, ideal for students working on NEA or personal projects.
- "Hackers: Heroes of the Computer Revolution" by Steven Levy. Tells the fascinating stories behind the early computer pioneers – inspiring for students interested in innovation.
- "Blown to Bits" by Hal Abelson, Ken Ledeen, and Harry Lewis. Looks at the societal and ethical implications of digital technology – great for the ethical and legal units.
- "Computational Fairy Tales" by Jeremy Kubica. Fun and creative way to learn complex computer science topics through stories.
- "Gödel, Escher, Bach" by Douglas Hofstadter. Advanced but fascinating—linking logic, computing, and the mind. Mentionable in Oxbridge applications.
- “What did Ada Lovelace’s Program Do?” Article about Ada Lovelace’s work
Resources and Facilities
The department is housed in the main building of the school. Our department is made up of 3 Computer suites alongside utilising our school wide Chromebooks. We have also recently collaborated with Southampton University, using their logic and arithmetic kits to help physically visualise the content learnt in the classroom.
Contact information
If you'd like to find out more please contact Mr M Massey, Subject Leader on mmassey@forest.academy