INTRODUCTION

ICT is a very popular and well resourced Department at North Cestrian. The subject is featured in the curriculum of every year group and gives each boy a nationally recognised CLAIT qualification at the end of Year 11. It is a popular choice at “A” Level. Modern equipment works off a whole site file server and Broad Band Internet Access helps keep the subject in touch with the outside world of Information Technology.

ACCOMMODATION

The ICT Department is made up of 2 computer suites one dedicated to ICT lessons whilst the other I used for cross-curricular use of ICT. There are a total of 26 networked computers which all run windows XP and the Microsoft Office package of programmes.

STAFFING

The Department has one specialist teacher supported by two other teachers.

Mrs J James, Head of Department
BSc Central Lancashire

Mr A Boswell
BA Leeds Metropolitan

Mrs P L Patterson

BSc Salford

CURRICULUM

Key Stage 3
Classes rotate on a half term basis between ICT and DT ensuring the classes are small enough to guarantee each pupil access to their own computer during lessons. This means all students have one fifty minute lesson a week for 6 weeks, 3 times a year.

The Scheme of Work for Year 7 covers word processing, internet project and presentation software in the summer term. The subjects covered in Year 7 ensure all students are equipped with the skills they need to make use of ICT tools across the curriculum.

In Year 8 students learn how to use spreadsheets, graphics software and desktop Publishing software.

The Year 9 scheme of work introduces students to databases and web design, equipping students with the skills necessary for the key stage curriculum.

Key stage 4
All students in Year’s 10 and 11 have 6 fifty minute lessons of ICT every term. They follow the OCR CLAIT Course, which covers topics such as, file management and e-document production, spreadsheets, databases, e-presentations, web page creation and on-line communications.

Key stage 5
At As and A2 levels pupils can take ICT as an option. Teaching groups are small and individual attention is available.

During the course, Sixth Formers undertake two practical projects (30% each) and four examinations, two each year (40%).

EXAMINATIONS

GCSE
CLAIT examinations (levels 1 and 2). There is also the option for some students to take the diploma award as well.

AS and A2
Sixth Form pupils follow AQA AS and A2 syllabus.