Why Study Computing and ICT?

Computing and ICT both teach you how to use computers in the creation of real world applications. You will learn how to make a computer behave how you want – this might be making a robot move something from one end of a room to another, it might be making a calculation which saves someone’s life in a medical ward, or it could be creating a whole new world through building pictures or sound or building a computer system so that other people can do this.

KS3: A Foundation course in Computing and ICT

Years 7, 8 and 9 are taught in a way that promotes the understanding of computers, their wider application as well as some elements of ICT. Programming is a core activity of our computing lessons because it enables the students to learn new ways of using a computer, whilst giving students the skills required in the growing software industry.

KS4: GCSE Computing (OCR)

At GCSE our students are given a real, in-depth understanding of how computer technology works, as well as providing an excellent route into higher study and/or employment in the field of Computers. With the way the course is taught we also develops critical thinking, analysis and problem-solving skills through the study of computer programming such a JavaScript, Python, Bash scripting.

Students develop their understanding of current and emerging technologies and develop an understanding of the use of algorithms in computer programs to solve problems using programming. By the end of the course they should be able to evaluate the effectiveness of computer programs and solutions, and assess the impact of issues related to the use of computer technology in society.

KS5: BTEC National Level 3 in ICT

In the sixth form at DGSB we teach the BTEC National level 3 in ICT at either a single, double or triple award level.

We feel that learning should be fun, not daunting. Since running the course, students have enjoyed BTEC programmes because they can specialise in areas of learning linked with work with which they have an interested. Students may specialise in web design, digital imagery or computer object programming. On the course assignments may be in written form, but it’s just as likely they will be in other formats, such as film clips, project proposals, business plans and structured databases.

We want to help students build their confidence by developing skills that will help them secure a job in a range of industries, or move on to higher education courses.

Enrichment activities at DGSB

As a student at DGSB you will have the option to engage in supporting a wide variety of computing projects such as the linux schools project (www.linuxschools.com) which is an international community project.

Computer rooms are staffed for additional study at lunchtimes and after school. All students are provided with email accounts and are able to submit work through the school’s online classroom. Students are invited to join enrichment activities such as our robot clubs or Java programming club for creating computer games.

Future Pathways

At the end of your computing career at DGSB you will be equipped with lifelong skills that you can use in a whole variety of jobs: from management to consulting, from programming to information systems administration, from IT companies to any company, large or small.