Today we encounter computers in all aspects of our lives and the Computing Department aims to teach boys how to use common software packages and create computer systems of their own. The scope of the subject is vast. We cover topics that range from the simple, such as making a presentation, to the complex, such as floating point binary arithmetic and using programming languages to write new computer software.
Staff
Mr P Meakin BSc (Head of Department)
Mr D A Ferguson BA
Aims
The Computing Department aims to help the boys become familiar with the software packages that they will need to use to support their work in other subjects and to develop their awareness of how computers work. We ensure that all boys are challenged and that they progress throughout their time studying with us. We also expect the boys to consider critically their appropriate use of software and hardware.
Outline of Work
Boys in the First to Third Forms follow a compulsory Information Technology course. They learn basic computing concepts and how to use common software packages including word processing, desktop publishing, computer graphics, web design, and spreadsheet, database and presentation packages. Boys are taught in form groups of about 24, with each lesson staffed by two specialist teachers.
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) GCSE is available as an option to boys in the Fourth and Fifth Forms. Boys following this course study the operation of a computer, networking, security, computer control systems and the law relating to computers. They learn how to make sophisticated use of many software packages and how to plan and develop their own computer applications. The school follows the AQA Information and Communication Technology (A) specification. Assessment is based on two substantial coursework projects and one exam taken at the end of the Fifth Form.
AS and A2 Computing are available as options in the Sixth and Seventh Forms. Boys following these courses learn how computers operate and how to write computer software in a programming language. Most boys learn to program in Pascal but some have learned Visual Basic, Delphi, ASP and PHP. Assessment is based on four modular exams and two coursework projects. The school follows the AQA Computing specification. There are usually between 5 and 8 boys in a class.
Teaching methods and resources
The Computing Department is based in two specialist rooms, both of which have interactive whiteboards. Our computers use Windows XP and all of them have Office 2003 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access), Works 2000, Paint Shop Pro 7 and a variety of specialist packages installed. Some computers have additional software such as Corel Draw, Pascal, Delphi and Visual Basic. Filtered Internet access is available when required.
Extra-curricular activities
A Computer Club operates before school from 8:00 until the start of school each morning and during four lunchtimes each week. Boys can attend the club to continue with work they have been doing in lessons, get help and advice from members of staff and try out new activities such as programming. Additional access to computers outside lessons is also provided in the school’s Learning Resource Centre.