Computer Science

Internet Safety:Students will learn how to collect and use digital images using appropriate software. They will explore responsible online behaviour, understanding what is right and wrong when using technology and online services. Students will explore responsible online behaviour, create strong passwords, recognise online risks, and develop good digital habits for school and everyday life.

Algorithmic thinking: Students will develop problem-solving skills by learning how to design and analyse algorithms. They will explore how algorithms are sequences of steps used to complete tasks and how they differ from computer programs. This unit encourages logical thinking, creativity, and perseverance—foundational skills for future computing and cybersecurity learning.

Small basic programming: Students will understand how to control movement using commands and explore key computational thinking concepts such as sequencing, repetition, and user input. Students will create simple programs safely and responsibly, gaining confidence in coding and seeing how programming connects to real-world technology and future careers.

Data Representation: Students will explore how data is stored and represented digitally. Students will understand how text, images, and sound are converted into binary form.

Small basic programming: Students will learn fundamental programming concepts using Small Basic, developing problem-solving and logical thinking skills. Students will safely create programs that model real-world problems and strengthen computational thinking.

Hardware, software, system security and logic gates: Students will learn about computer components, storage devices, and logic gates. Students will also explore system security and safe computing practices, understanding how hardware, software, and cybersecurity work together.

Cyber Security: Students will learn about the importance of cybersecurity, the threats faced by digital systems, and how to protect data and systems from cyberattacks. Students will explore topics such as malware, phishing, and social engineering, developing an understanding of how to stay safe online and the importance of ethical behaviour in the digital world.

Python Programming: Students will be introduced to Python programming, focusing on writing simple programs using variables and performing calculations. They will build confidence in problem-solving and computational thinking while writing safe, secure, real-world programs.

Networks and cybersecurity: Students will explore different network types, their components, and data transmission. Students will learn network safety and secure data handling.
Building websites using HTML/CSS with cyber awareness: Students will create and style web pages using HTML and CSS. Students will explore safe and responsible website design, including data protection and accessible, ethical content.

Unit 1 – Fundamentals of Algorithms: Students learn how algorithms are used to solve problems and how they can be represented. Students develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills, applying algorithms safely and efficiently to real-world scenarios.
Unit 2 – Fundamentals of Programming: Students learn core programming principles including data types, operations, file handling, and string processing. Students practise safe and responsible coding while improving accuracy, logic and computational thinking.

Unit 2 – Programming and Data Structures: Students explore data structures, Boolean logic, and random number generation. Students understand how to organise and process data effectively, applying safe and responsible programming techniques.
Unit 3 – Data Representation:Students will explore how data is represented in computers. They will understand the use of binary, hexadecimal and how data storage and processing support real-world computing systems.

Unit 4 – Computer Systems: Students will explore the different components of computer systems, including hardware and software. They will consider how systems interact safely and efficiently and how system design impacts real-world applications.

Unit 5 – Computer networks: Students will learn about computer networks, their types, benefits, risks, and the differences between wired and wireless networks. They will also focus on safe network practices and protecting data in connected environments.
Unit 6 – Cyber security:Students will learn how to protect systems from malicious attacks and explore common threats. They will develop an understanding of ethical computing, safe practices, and strategies to defend systems from cybercrime.

Unit 7 – Relational Databases and Structured Query Language (SQL): Students will learn about relational databases, their structure and how to write SQL queries. They will apply these skills to manage and interrogate data safely and responsibly.
Unit 8 – Ethical, Legal, and Environmental Impacts: Students will learn about the ethical, legal, and environmental considerations of technology use. They will reflect on how technology impacts society and the importance of responsible digital citizenship.

Preparation for GCSE Exams: Students will consolidate all content covered over two years and practise answering GCSE-style questions. They will apply knowledge and practical skills safely and effectively, preparing for assessments and real-world applications.