Computer Science
Technology is constantly changing and in the Computer Science department (formerly ICT) we are continually evolving.
Coopers’ was one of the first schools to get on board when computers were introduced into Havering schools in the early 1980s and we have been setting a high standard ever since. The IT block containing 3 IT suites was built in 1986 and opened by Princess Anne. Since then it has had many refits and the subject has changed almost yearly. 2014 saw the reintroduction of Computing being taught in years 7 to 11. A level Computing has been taught at Coopers’ for over 30 years but now GCSE Computer Science is back on the timetable and Computing is being taught to lower school pupils. Pupils learn some of the basic theory concepts of Computer Science and to program in a number of languages. There is also the opportunity to come along to our lunchtime programming.
We have a strong team led by Mr Sheehan who teaches all years throughout the school and is our programming expert. The rest of the team consists of Mrs Roberts who has a background in the computing industry; and Mrs Foreman who has been teaching A Level Computing since it was first taught in Havering in the 1980s.
Year 7 Computing – ICT
What will you learn about?
- Emails and networks
- Binary
- Python programming
- DVD cover
- Spreadsheets
- Scratch programming
Topics are assessed by either a written or practical test.
To be successful in this subject students will need to be good at and enjoy:
Mathematics and problem solving. You need to be tenacious and not give up when something does not work first time. You need to be willing to embrace new technologies and learn a programming language.
Progression routes & career opportunities
Those who enjoy and are good at the programming and computer science theory aspect of this subject would be suitable to take GCSE Computer Science.
Homework/extended learning
Homework is set in the form of learning lists of information for recall tests. The students are given a list of facts to learn in advance of a recall test at the start of a new topic. There is also occasional research homework in preparation for a class activity.
Year 8 Computing – ICT
What will you learn about?
- Boolean algebra
- Technology
- Python programming
- Databases
- Sorting and searching
- Website Design and programming in HTML
To be successful in this subject students will need to be good at and enjoy:
Mathematics and problem solving. You need to be tenacious and not give up when something does not work first time. You need to be willing to embrace new technologies and learn a programming language.
Progression routes & career opportunities
Those who enjoy and are good at the programming and computer science theory aspect of this subject would be suitable to take GCSE Computer Science.
Homework/extended learning
Homework is set in the form of learning lists of information for recall tests. The students are given a list of facts to learn in advance of a recall test at the start of a new topic. There is also occasional research homework in preparation for a class activity.
Year 9
In year 9 our students are taught ICT and are entered for a two hour practical exam called ICT Functional Skills Level 1 or 2. Functional Skills qualifications give students a practical grounding in how to apply ICT skills to everyday situations. There is a strong focus on explanation and problem solving, using real-life contexts to allow students to apply their ICT skills in a variety of situations.
What will you learn about?
How to apply ICT skills effectively in a variety of situations using generic office products.
- Spreadsheets (formulae, filters and graphs)
- Word processing
- Presentations
- Internet searching
- Organising files in folders
To be successful in this subject, students will need to be good at and enjoy:
Using their ICT skills to complete tasks and meet clearly stated requirements.
Progression routes & career opportunities
The qualification is suitable for learners who wish to be recognized for their achievement of a wide range of practical ICT skills for use in everyday life.
Homework/extended learning
Homework is set in the form of learning lists of information for recall tests. The students are given a list of facts to learn in advance of a recall test at the start of a new topic. In addition, closer to the exam, students are given the opportunity to work on practice papers.
Additional information
Functional Skills Level 2
https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/functional-skills/ict-level-2-09877/
Functional Skills Level 1:
https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/functional-skills/ict-level-1-09876/