Computer Science and Digital Media

Choose a subject:

At KS4 we have two pathways for those interested in Computer Science and Digital Media. These are: 

  • Creative iMedia Level 1/Level 2 - J834
  • Computer Science (9-1) - J277

Creative iMedia Level 1/Level 2 - J834

Digital Media is a key part of many areas of our everyday lives and vital to the UK economy. Production of digital media products is a requirement of almost every business so there is huge demand for a skilled and digitally literate workforce. This course will provide you with the skills for further study in subjects such as media, journalism, design or business. It also prepares you for a range of creative and technical job roles within the media industry.

The course is split into three units of work. There are two mandatory units:

  • R093 - Creative iMedia in the media industry (Exam - 40%) - In this unit you will learn about the sectors, products and job roles that form the media industry.
  • R094 - Visual identity and digital graphics (Coursework - 25%) - In this unit you will learn how to develop brands and visual identities for clients.

And one optional unit:

  • Animation with Audio (Coursework - 35%) - In this unit you will learn how to create animations for a given purpose with the inclusion of audio.

Grades are based on assessment across all three units. Students will be awarded a grade from Pass at Level 1 through to Distinction* at level 2.

Career Possibilities

Graphics Designer - Animator - Web Designer - Web Developer  Web Content Editor - Art Editor - Computer Games Tester - Editorial Assistant - Set Designer - Production Manager - Director - Producer - Video Editor - Sound Editor - Vlogger

OCR Computer Science (9-1) - J277

The world needs computer scientists and people that can solve problems. Computer programmes directly affect every aspect of our lives and we rely on computer scientists for this. This is an exciting, yet challenging course for those that are interested in solving problems using technology. The course requires a high standard of technical writing in both of the examinations. Therefore, good skills in reading and writing will make this a positive difference.

Component 1 : Computer systems - This paper consists of multiple choice questions, short response questions and extended response questions. This component will assess:

1.1 Systems architecture - 1.2 Memory and storage - 1.3 Computer networks, connections and protocols - 1.4 Network security - 1.5 Systems software - 1.6 Ethical, legal, cultural and environmental impacts of digital technology

Component 2 : Computational thinking, algorithms and programming - This paper has two sections: Section A and Section B. Students must answer both sections. This component will assess:

2.1 Algorithms - 2.2 Programming fundamentals - 2.3 Producing robust programs - 2.4 Boolean logic - 2.5 Programming languages and Integrated Development Environments

Grades are based on assessment across both units which are equally weighted at 50% each. Students will be awarded a GCSE grade from 1 to 9.

Career Possibilities

Applications Developer - Cyber Security Analyst - Data Analyst - Forensic Computer Analyst - Games Developer - Information Systems Manager - IT Consultant - Software Engineer - Web Designer - Web Developer - Ethical Hacking

KS5

As the world of digital technology rapidly advances, we are dedicated to providing an effective and ambitious curriculum that ensures pupils are supported in developing the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive as digital natives. 

In KS5, the Cambridge Technical course in Information Technology develops students' life skills through the curriculum, with an emphasis on students’ digital literacy. We offer a broad and balanced range of activities through 5 different units of study, allowing all students to develop an area of passion. Students take more responsibility for their own learning by reflecting on and responding to assessment and feedback.  This builds on habits developed in prior key stages. High expectations are set by teaching staff demonstrating belief in everyone’s ability to achieve.

Over the two-year programme, students will complete 5 units of study : 

  • Unit   1 - Fundamentals of IT (90 GLH, Paper-based exam)
  • Unit   2 - Global Information (90 GLH , Paper-based exam)
  • Unit   6 - Application Design (60 GLH)
  • Unit   8 – Project Management (60 GLH)
  • Unit 17 - Internet of Everything (60 GLH)
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