Computer Science
Computer Science at Stanborough offers students a dynamic insight into the world of IT (Information Technology) and computer science. We offer students a range of activities on several software platforms, learning through the use of a range of websites and online interactive activities.
The aim of the Computer Science Faculty is to ensure students and staff at Stanborough School are confident, competent and safe users of IT. We believe that all students can develop into creators of IT through computer science, preparing them for life in an ever-changing world.
Head of Faculty: Mr J Brown
Email: jbrown@stanborough.herts.sch.uk
What will students study?
In KS3
Over the course of Key Stage 3, students will develop the skills required to use technology safely and effectively throughout their life – whether it is for personal, educational, community, social or business purposes. Students will also learn about the fundamentals of computer science behind the technology that they use.
During their lessons, students explore a variety of issues from how we use technology in our daily lives to using web tools effectively within specific settings and areas of industry. Students will become digital designers by creating graphics, animations and movies. They will discover how computers really work and learn how to code using different programming languages, including Python. Throughout these units of work, students will also develop their digital literacy skills needed for the 21st century workplace. This is achieved using Microsoft Office and professional digital design tools such as Blender, alongside other open-source software packages.
Throughout Key Stage 3, students study key concepts from within both digital literacy and computer science.
In KS4
Students at KS4 are given the opportunity to study GCSE Computer Science.
GCSE Computer Science is aimed at students who are logical in their approach to problem solving, want to gain a greater understanding of computer science and develop their computational thinking skills. Students will learn about different aspects of computer systems and how they work in a real-world context. Students will develop and refine their programming skills and knowledge, with the opportunity to create programs that imitate real-life systems.
The OCR course covers two components: Component 01 – Computer systems and Component 02 – Computational thinking, algorithms and programming. The final assessment consists of two written exams which are equally weighted at 50%.
In KS5
Students can choose to continue their Computer Science studies at Stanborough.
GCE Computer Science encourages students to develop an understanding of, and ability to apply, the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science. This includes abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation. The course allows students to think creatively, analytically and logically about the relationships between different aspects of computer science, whilst understanding the individual (moral), social (ethical), legal and cultural opportunities and risks of digital technology.
How can I support my child in this subject?
The best way to support your child for this subject is to go through the work they have completed in lessons, regularly check over homework and review the skills learnt using a particular software.
Below is a list of useful websites:
At Key Stage 4 and 5, students prepare for their GCSE and A Level exams following an objective specification, related to their course and exam board. Students receive a copy at the beginning of their course and each lesson will reflect these objectives. All specifications are available online for you to read from the exam board websites.
What equipment does my child need in this subject?
For this subject it can be very useful to have a computer at home as well as their laptop, but if this is not available the LRC is open at lunchtime, breaktime, before and after school.
There are many open source, free software options available to be used at home, which are the same used during lesson time. Recommendations for software downloads will be made by the class teacher and shared with pupils and their families via Classcharts where appropriate.
Students are also required to have the same stationery equipment in line with Stanborough School expectations.
Celebrating successes in this subject:
We network with local primary schools, where we provide computer science and robotics events and workshops to build the awareness and enthusiasm for computer science with the younger pupils within our wider community. Stanborough students across different year groups support in the success of these events.
The Stanborough VEX Robotics Club has continued its success nationally and internationally. We have taken part in local, regional and world-wide robotics Competitions. Teams have won a number of awards such as the well-respected Judges’ Award. On the national front, we have hosted several very successful Robotics Competitions for both Lego Robotics and VEX Robotics. Some of our previous VEX teams have qualified for the National Robotics Finals with one team going on to win, officially becoming UK National Champions. We have also been competitive at VEX Robot Rumble competitions. These achievements have really consolidated our status as a leading UK school for Robotics, boasting a trophy cabinet and a budget made up of donations and sponsorships.
We promote online safety in the school via our curriculum and by celebrating Safer Internet Day for which we plan promotions, events and competitions which go beyond the classroom. We want to ensure our students understand the importance of staying safe online and conducting themselves appropriately whilst using internet enabled devices.
Extra-Curricular Activities and Visits
Computer Science is a subject that prides itself in offering students a wide range of out of class opportunities. These include clubs, leadership responsibilities and educational visits.
Examples include:
- Digital Council
- Coding club
- Robotics club
- VEX Robotics club
- Catch-up club
