Computing

Computer Science

The Computer Science department at Notley High School aims to ensure that every student leaves with confidence and competence in the fundamentals of computing. Students develop a strong understanding of digital technology, become familiar with a range of commonly used applications, and build a well-developed set of computational thinking and problem-solving skills.

Key Stage 3

Students in Years 7 to 9 have one hour of Computer Science per fortnight. The course follows the National Curriculum and introduces a broad range of topics designed to help students use computational thinking and creativity to understand and shape the digital world around them.

Throughout Key Stage 3, students develop their programming skills through a series of Python projects and Micro:bit activities. They also take part in national challenges such as the Bebras Challenge and Bebras Coding Challenge, which stretch their logical reasoning and problem-solving abilities. Additionally, they will be taught the fundamental concepts of how all computers function.

The Key Stage 3 scheme of work is designed to prepare students for the topics studied at Key Stage 4, ensuring they can make informed option choices.

Key Stage 4

Students in Years 10 and 11 follow the OCR GCSE Computer Science (J277) specification. The course is assessed through two written examinations and complemented by a series of non-assessed programming projects that allow students to apply their coding knowledge in practice. These non-assessed projects do not contribute towards the student’s final grade.

Through the study of programming and computational theory, learners develop critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills that are both intellectually rewarding and transferable to other subjects and real-world contexts.

Key Stage 5

At A-Level, students study the AQA Computer Science (7517) specification, which is assessed through two written examinations and a Non-Exam Assessment (NEA), worth 20% of the final grade.

The A-Level course builds on all topics covered at GCSE in significantly greater depth. Students explore advanced areas such as algorithms, data structures, functional programming, and computer architecture. The course provides an excellent foundation for higher education or degree apprenticeships in computing, software engineering, or related disciplines.

Enrichment

Our enrichment programme offers students opportunities to extend their knowledge and skills beyond the classroom.

Robotics and Computational Thinking projects enable students to apply advanced programming techniques to real-world scenarios. The Mechatronics strand integrates hardware and software through challenges such as the European Space Agency Astro Pi: Life on Earth, the Elite Bebras Coding Challenge, and the British Informatics Olympiad.

Students also visit the Centre for Computing History in Cambridge, which houses over 24,000 pieces of computing memorabilia, allowing them to explore the evolution and impact of technology throughout history.

At every stage, our Computer Science curriculum aims to develop confident, creative, and adaptable learners who understand not only how technology works, but also how it shapes the modern world. Students are encouraged to think critically, solve problems independently, and pursue their curiosity about computing in both academic and practical ways.

Curriculum Overview & Exam Information

Computer Science Curriculum Overview - Year 12

Computer Science Curriculum Overview - Year 13

Computer Science Exam Information - Year 10

Computer Science Exam Information - Year 11

Learning & Careers

Computing Learning Journey - KS3

Computing Learning Journey - KS4

Computing Learning Journey - KS5

Key Objectives

Year 7-9 Key Objectives

Computing Staff