ICT STUDIES

ICT is taught predominantly in the Third Form, with some sets studying the European Computing Driving Licence (ECDL) and the remainder preparing for OCR ICT Functional Skills Level 2.  The students also develop their touch-typing skills and spending some time to consider the ethics and social implications of ICT in the world today.  The Third Form courses develop students' capabilities so that they can use ICT effectively and safely in all areas of their learning and throughout subsequent years.

The ECDL is an internationally recognised qualification test of practical skills and competencies and consists of seven separate modules covering computer theory and practice. To achieve an ECDL / ICDL certification, the Candidate must successfully pass a test in all seven modules which is equivalent to a grade B at GCSE.

Module 1 - Concepts of Information Technology (IT)
Module 2 - Using the Computer and Managing Files
Module 3 - Word Processing
Module 4 - Spreadsheets
Module 5 - Database
Module 6 - Presentation
Module 7 - Information and Communication

The OCR ICT Functional Skills Level 2 course was launched this term and pupils studying this course are aiming for an A-C grade at GCSE. Functional Skills ICT encourages learners to use technology in ways which enables them to be confident and capable in using ICT effectively in everyday life. Learners must demonstrate that they can find, select and bring together relevant information and use the knowledge and experiences gained, to develop and interpret ICT purposefully.

Learners will be assessed to show that they can use ICT beneficially and adapt their knowledge to new situations in life and work, and show that they understand the role that ICT plays in the world.

Beyond the Third Form Information Technology is part of the teaching and learning process across the curriculum. Provision is regularly monitored to ensure that boys have opportunities to use technologies and application software effectively.  There are also ICT Activity Sessions for pupils to work on GCSE ICT independently once they have finished the ECDL.

The department is supported by a team of ICT Technicians and a Classroom Assistant who are on hand to assist pupils on a one-to-one basis should they need a little extra support in lessons.

Victoria Clayton BA MCILIP
Head of Academic ICT