Our Curriculum Intent
Computing at Chesterton Community Sports College
The Computing curriculum at Chesterton Community Sports College (CCSC) spans five years from Year 7 to Year 11. Learning is carefully sequenced so that each year builds on, revisits, and strengthens prior knowledge. Curriculum maps and overviews make these links explicit, helping pupils understand how their learning develops over time.
Pupils who do not opt to study GCSE Computer Science or Creative iMedia continue to develop essential digital literacy and computing skills through other subjects, effective use of their iPad, and PSHCE. This ensures all pupils are well prepared for further education, employment, and life beyond CCSC.
Our Curriculum Approach
The Computing Department aims to make computing accessible, engaging, and relevant for all pupils. Our curriculum is designed to prepare learners for a range of future pathways while developing strong digital literacy, creative ICT skills, and a secure technical understanding of computer systems and programming.
All pupils have access to either a desktop computer or an iPad, and OneNote is used extensively to record work, supporting our commitment to a paper-light department.
We follow a spiral curriculum underpinned by four key principles:
- Know more
Prior knowledge is assessed and built upon, with a strong focus on Crucial Knowledge to establish secure foundations. - Remember more
Pupils regularly revisit key content through structured recap, retrieval activities, and planned revision opportunities. - Understand it
Understanding is checked frequently through low-stakes assessment, questioning, and classroom activities, allowing teaching to adapt where gaps are identified. - Apply it
Pupils apply their knowledge in practical tasks, assessments, and problem-solving activities, building confidence and independence.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7 and 8)
All pupils study one hour of Computing per week at Key Stage 3. In Year 7, pupils also receive an additional Computer Skills lesson to ensure they can use technology effectively across all subjects.
The Key Stage 3 curriculum is designed to:
- Prepare pupils for GCSE Computer Science
- Introduce creative digital skills relevant to vocational pathways
- Develop confident, responsible, and capable users of technology
Year 7 topics include:
- Collaborating online respectfully
- Using media to support a cause
- Modelling data with spreadsheets
- Computer networks
- Programming essentials using Scratch
Year 8 topics include:
- Understanding binary
- Vector graphics
- Mobile app development
- Introduction to Python programming
- Web development
- Control systems
Year 8 also includes a vocational and creative computing strand, introducing skills aligned with Creative iMedia to better prepare pupils for KS4 options.
Key Stage 4 (Years 9–11)
Digital literacy continues to be developed across Key Stage 4 through subject links and the effective use of iPads. The Computing Department offers two specialist qualifications:
- GCSE Computer Science (OCR J277)
- Cambridge National Creative iMedia
Teaching follows a two-year GCSE model, with Year 9 focused on foundational knowledge and skills, allowing pupils to begin GCSE content with confidence. Year 9 includes frequent opportunities for recap and consolidation.
Pupils opting for one Computing subject receive two hours per week. Pupils studying both qualifications receive four hours per week.
GCSE Computer Science (OCR)
GCSE Computer Science is a highly relevant qualification in an increasingly digital world. Pupils gain a deep understanding of how computer systems work, including what happens “behind the scenes”, and develop strong problem-solving and programming skills.
A significant focus is placed on programming, taught using the PRIMM model (Predict, Run, Investigate, Modify, Make) to develop independent, resilient learners who can read, understand, and write code confidently.
The course is assessed on a 9–1 grading scale and counts as a science towards the English Baccalaureate (EBacc).
Students considering this course should:
- Be secure in Mathematics and English
- Have an interest in the technical aspects of computing
- Be willing to solve problems independently and persist with challenge
What will I learn?
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Content Overview |
Assessment Overview |
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Computer systems
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Computer systems (01) 80 marks Written paper |
50% of total GCSE |
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Computational thinking, algorithms and programming
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Computational thinking, algorithms and programming (02) Written paper |
50% of total GCSE |
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Programming
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In class programming projects
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With technology ever changing, there is a demand for professionals who are qualified in this area. If you want to go on to higher study and employment in the field of Computer Science, you will find that this course provides a superb stepping stone. Once you have taken a Computing GCSE and you can then progress to study the subject at A Level and then university.
For more information please follow THIS LINK to the official course website.
Cambridge National in Creative iMedia
In Year 9, students complete Unit R094: Visual identity and digital graphics, learning how to design and create digital graphics that communicate effectively to a target audience. This year provides a strong foundation in creative design principles, technical software skills, and the ability to plan and evaluate digital products.
In Year 10, students progress to Unit R095: Characters and comics, where they explore storytelling through digital illustration and comic production. They learn how to create engaging characters, develop narratives, and use industry-standard tools to bring their ideas to life.
In Year 11, the focus shifts to Unit R093: Creative iMedia in the media industry, the externally assessed component. Students develop a broad understanding of how the media industry operates, including pre-production planning, legal considerations, and the roles and processes involved in creating media products.
Across all three years, students are encouraged to “know more, remember more, understand it, and apply it.” They build their research and referencing skills, develop independence through practical projects, and explore potential career paths in digital media, design, and related industries.
Information on the course can be found at:
https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/cambridge-nationals/creative-imedia-level-1-2-j834/
