Computing

“Computers themselves, and software yet to be developed, will revolutionise the way we learn.” Steve Jobs, Co-founder, Apple

Students today are part of the ‘digital generation’ and have been using computers, technology, and mobile devices for as long as they can remember. The Computing department at Hillview aims to harness their aptitude and enhance their skills to better prepare them for adult life and the world of work.

At Key Stage 3, our Computing curriculum is integrated into the ‘Global Learning’ framework and utilizes scenarios primarily drawn from the Humanities program as the basis for our computer work. Typical units in Years 7 and 8 include: creating and developing websites, financial planning using spreadsheets, and multimedia projects centered around a global theme. Additionally, in Year 8, we participate in the national BBC News School Report project, transforming our students into young reporters tasked with creating their own digital news bulletins.

Computing is a compulsory subject at Key Stage 4, where all students are required to follow either the GCSE course in Computing or the more skills-based OCR Nationals qualification. Our goal is for all students to graduate from Hillview with a formally recognized Computing qualification. There is a strong emphasis on applying practical computing skills to solve problems or design systems for end-users, which helps students develop project management skills that benefit them across the curriculum. The Computing Curriculum at Key Stage 4 effectively prepares students for the computing courses offered in the 6th Form at Hillview.

We have five dedicated computing suites at Hillview, and with over 400 computers available, we are well-equipped for both PC and Apple applications. We primarily use Microsoft and Serif software in our Computing classes but also occasionally employ other packages, including subject-specific software used in various areas of the curriculum. Our online Learning Environment is provided by Frog and is widely utilized throughout the school to support learning and communication.

The safety of our students is a priority, and this includes their use of computing resources. We collaborate closely with an internet safety expert to deliver a series of e-safety sessions to our Year 7 students, as well as to the entire school during assemblies. These messages are reinforced in computing lessons, and students also run an e-mentoring service, providing support to their peers via email and text message.

With the demand for computing skills continually increasing among employers, the Computing provision and curriculum at Hillview offer all our students the opportunity to become qualified, competent, and confident in this essential area of their education.