Aims
We aim to ensure that all pupils are computer literate and have the opportunity to reach their potential in using the ICT facilities, not only in discrete ICT lessons, but across the whole curriculum.
Staff and facilities
The department is staffed by 3 full time teachers. There are 2 main ICT suites which are part of the school wide network. In addition, many departments have their own computers that are used by pupils to carry out research and present their work. Each ICT suite has an interactive whiteboard.
How much time will I spend on this subject per 10 day cycle?
- Lower School – 2 lessons (2 hours) plus homework
- GCSE – 5 lessons (5 hours) plus homework / coursework
Class sizes
From First Year to Third Year ICT is taught in form groups of around 25 pupils. We try to keep GCSE groups to a minimum with a maximum group size of approximately 20 students.
ICT in the Lower School
In the first 3 years pupils learn how to use many of the latest software applications used in business and will develop skills in all areas of ICT including web design, graphics, office applications and communication. Pupils learn how to choose an application for a specific task and will develop an understanding of how ICT affects our daily lives. Pupils have their own email address and access to the internet, through our filtered line, to carry out research for their work in school.
ICT further up the school
If pupils choose the GCSE option they will be involved in developing ICT systems and understanding how ICT helps to automate many of the things we take for granted.
Can I do my homework at school?
Yes, whenever the ICT suites are open. Pupils can also access the school network from home using the Citrix gateway. This means that work started in school can be continued at home and vice versa. Pupils are also encouraged to use Citrix when working from home as it means their work is stored on our servers and is backed up each night. This removes the need for transporting important files on USB pen drives.
When can I use the computer?
Pupils can use the computers before school, at break and lunch time for coursework or homework. Pupils can also use scanners and digital cameras to enhance their work.
Clubs
Film club meets every Wednesday after school in the Hallam computer room. Pupils learn how to use video cameras and editing software. We cover all aspects of film making – from script to screen.
Animation club meets in Hallam computer room on Thursday lunchtimes and covers many aspects of computer animation using software and modelling clay.
Game maker club allows pupils to create games using specialist software. This will enable pupils to develop their own computer games and learn some of the programming used in this financially rewarding area of the subject.
Games
Our policy is that the network is provided for educational purposes only. Pupils are not allowed to play computer games on the school computers unless it is part of a class activity specified by a teacher.
