ICT & Computing

Computing & ICT is a subject which aims to provide students with the skills required to interact with the modern world. 

This very important subject is a requirement today as there are very few jobs that have not been affected by the introduction of computers and ICT in all its aspects. The course will provide an excellent introduction to how to use computers in the future workplace, as well as providing students with the skills required to negotiate their future education successfully. 

The Computing & ICT Department has two dedicated ICT teaching rooms that are equipped with a number of networked PC computers, networked printers, networked A3 printers, interactive whiteboards with speakers and 68" HD touch-sensitive screens. Also available is a dedicated ICT resources room available for more individual, self-monitored work. 

We pride ourselves as being a very popular, friendly, hardworking department that ensures our students receive high quality, vibrant lessons where they learn and thoroughly enjoy Computing & ICT. There is also mutual respect and outstanding relationships between staff and students. 

For further information please contact the Computing & ICT teacher Ms. Kriehn (naomi.kriehn@horizonstrust.org.uk) 

The SHAPE Curriculum 

ICT & Computing is committed to ensuring that our students benefit from our whole-academy approach to education using the SHAPE curriculum. By embedding the ethos of this approach, we are able to make sure that our students are aspiring and resilient members of society when they leave us. 

• Safe: Our students will learn how to use equipment safely and how that dangers in the online world can be reduced by becoming better digital citizens. 
• Healthy: Physical health matters covered include the ergonomic use of computers, the side effects of too much screen time and the need to understand that ICT is an aid to human life and not a replacement. Our mental health is also covered through our work with e-safety and the effects of cyber-bullying and new forms of mental abuse. 
• Attendance: Our students will only become successful if they attend lessons. To achieve this, we have created a range of stimulating and engaging activities that inform and inspire.
• Progress: Our curriculum is broken down into units that cover a half-term period. At the end of every unit is an evaluation session where students are assessed on the skills they have learned. Accurate record keeping and reporting will highlight areas that students might need further learning and also where the students have been successful in knowing and understanding new knowledge and ideologies. 
• Employable: Our students will gain the key skills that are required to ensure that they become productive in the future. Some of the units covered are directly linked to the world of work (using real-world examples) whilst others allow the students to develop the transferable skills that will prove invaluable post-16 and beyond. 

Key Stage 3 

At Westlands Academy, our KS3 Computing and Information Technology curriculum is designed to reignite curiosity, rebuild foundational knowledge, and equip students with the digital skills essential for the modern world.  

We recognise the significant impact of the COVID-20 pandemic on students’ learning journeys. As such, our curriculum is intentionally structured to bridge gaps in knowledge, particularly by revisiting and reinforcing key KS2 computing concepts that may have been missed or underdeveloped. This ensures that all students, regardless of their starting point, have a solid foundation upon which to build.  

In Key Stage 3, students will:  

• Revisit and consolidate core digital literacy and computational thinking skills from KS2.  

• Explore new and engaging topics such as algorithms, programming, data representation, cybersecurity, and the ethical use of technology.  

• Develop problem-solving and logical reasoning skills through hands-on projects and real-world applications.  

• Gain confidence in using a range of software and digital tools, preparing them for both academic and everyday digital tasks.  

Our curriculum is carefully sequenced to ensure that students are not only prepared for their Open Awards qualifications but are also inspired to pursue further study or careers in the digital and tech sectors. We aim to foster a lifelong curiosity about how technology works, how it shapes our world, and how students can become active, responsible digital citizens.  

Ultimately, our intent is to create a learning environment where every student:  

• Feels confident and capable in using technology.  

• Understands the relevance of computing in their lives and future careers.  

• Is empowered to think critically, solve problems creatively, and engage with technology in a meaningful way.  

KS3 Overview of Topics: 

Key Stage 4 

The Computing & ICT department offer three courses at Key Stage 4: 

• Open Awards Entry Level 3 Online Basics allows students to show how they can be safe online, are able to use the internet effectively and what practical employment skills can be completed online. 
• Open Awards Level 1 Award and Certificate in Employment Skills for Creative and Cultural Industries is more creative in the deliverables from the student:  
• Photography – Using a camera 
• Taking Digital Photographs 
• Lighting in Photography 

These qualifications allow students to gain credit for their abilities whilst at the same time show their progress through Key Stage 4. These qualifications are recognised by employers and show that the student has gained several ICT skills that are relevant to most employment.