ACE Computing
Computing Curriculum
Key Stage 3
The Key Stage 3 curriculum at ACE combines content from The National Centre for Computing Education (NCCE) and content from the Ofqual Functional Skills Criteria for ICT. The Computing topics covered at ACE aim to inspire young people to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Pupils will:
- use two or more programming languages, at least one of which is textual, to solve a variety of computational problems.
- understand simple Boolean logic and some of its uses in circuits and programming.
- understand the hardware and software components that make up computer systems, and how they communicate with one another and with other systems.
- undertake creative projects that involve selecting, using, and combining multiple applications.
- understand a range of ways to use technology safely, respectfully, responsibly, and securely.
The Functional Skills in Information and Communication Technology focuses on 3 skill areas:
- using ICT systems
- finding and selecting information
- developing, presenting, and communicating information
Combining ICT and Computing will ensure pupils at ACE acquire knowledge of IT devices and using the Internet whilst developing problem solving skills and communication in a world led by technology.
Key Stage 4
Key Stage 4 pupils at ACE will complete a Level 1 BTEC Award in Digital Information Technology. With the digital sector becoming a major source of employment in the UK, this course offers sector-specific applied knowledge and skills through vocational contexts by studying project planning, data management, data interpretation, data presentation and data protection. The qualification recognises the value of learning skills, knowledge, and vocational attributes to complement GCSEs and aims to broaden learners’ experience and understanding of the varied progression options available to them post 16. It is an introduction to the application of project planning techniques to plan, design and develop a user interface and how to collect, present and interpret data and the use of digital systems.