OUR PHILOSOPHY

ICT Information Communications Technology is more vital now than ever.  Our young people need a knowledge and understanding of computers, software, the Internet and the rapidly expanding world of digital communications.  To be successful, they need to develop an awareness of how organisations communicate and operate to retain their competitive edge.
 
Our department aim is to ensure that all our pupils can use ICT securely, creatively and independently, and have the ability and confidence to remain up-to-date with future developments in technology.  We work hard as a team of specialist teachers to inspire our pupils to develop the skills and understanding required to be effective and responsible as individuals at school, in their friendship groups, communities, further education and the workplace.
 

OUR FACILITIES
The ICT department comprises four specialist suites each equipped with interactive whiteboard, sound and projector systems and approximately 30 networked workstations.  Each offers filtered, high speed internet access and runs the latest Windows 7 operating system, the latest Microsoft Office and Macromedia software plus a wide range of other applications. Laser and colour inkjet printers, webcams, digital cameras and video recorders, scanners and sound recording are available in all rooms to provide the necessary equipment expected for the 21st century. There are a further eight IT suites throughout the school dedicated to specific faculties.

The ratio of computers to pupils is excellent, with approximately 650 networked workstations across school and interactive whiteboards in every teaching room.

All pupils are issued with their own unique log-in account and password to access the school network and their own secure storage area for school work.  We also offer a secure school email account to enable those with out-of-school computer/internet access to transfer work safely between home and school.  It is expected that all pupils will comply with the use of school ICT facilities in accordance with our 'Acceptable User' policy.

ICT PROVISION
Pupils in Years 7 - 9 are taught in mixed ability groups, and receive two lessons per fortnight in one of the specialist computer suites.  They complete units of work which provide opportunities to develop their knowledge, understanding and technical ability in a range of software and the safe, responsible use of the internet/email.  This is delivered through a variety of learning activities including the use of on-line learning materials.

In Year 9, pupils undertake an extended piece of work to develop competence with more of the advanced tools and features of the programs.  It is expected that pupils will develop their strategies to work more independently of the teacher, through preparatory work for KS4.  These skills are integral to becoming an effective learner, are transferable to other subjects and will be beneficial to learning post 16.

Pupils will develop competency in the following areas:
* analysing problems and identifying the outcomes required,
* researching effectively; selecting and using appropriate resources, and recording and acknowledging sources,
* planning and monitoring their own progress,
* developing and recording ideas, and producing solutions which effectively meet the needs of the defined audience and purpose,
* critically evaluating their own work and that of others, to enable improvement(s).

Pupils in Years 10 and 11 can 'opt' to study a Digital Applications qualification (the equivalent of up to two GCSEs).  This initially takes the form of AIDA (Award in Digital Applications) and can be topped up to achieve CiDA (Certificate in Digital Applications).

Those who do not choose ICT as an option subject still receive 1 lesson of ICT each week and have the opportunity to gain the Functional Skills qualification (0.5 x GCSE).

Our homework tasks take a variety of formats and may include; research (internet or otherwise), practising new skills, preparation/annotation of design plans, learning vocabulary, collection of materials to bring to lessons, worksheets, peer assessment/feedback, evaluation and self-assessment, and completion of lesson tasks.

EXTRA CURRICULAR PROVISION
Pupils are able to use the computers in the ICT suites during lunchtimes and after school.  These are open every day of the week.  Any pupil wishing to use a room outside of lesson times should see the notices in the ICT area for further information and will need to ensure the 'Acceptable User Policy' (see pupil planner) is signed by themselves and a parent/guardian, especially if they wish to use the internet.

Pupils are encouraged to use the computers in their own time for many reasons:
* to practise and consolidate new skills learnt in ICT lessons
* to investigate the tools and features of a wide range of software
* to undertake skills audits and tutorials
* to complete homework and coursework
* for research purposes, and
* to undertake independent revision and examination practice, using the wealth of online learning materials available.

On occasions throughout the year, priority is given to KS4 pupils so that they may have opportunities to meet coursework deadlines.  Other subject areas across school also offer the use of computers outside of lesson times, including the school library.

ICT ACROSS THE CURRICULUM (ICTAC)
We firmly believe that all teaching staff should be competent to deliver an ICT requirement within their own subject area, which complements and consolidates the teaching and learning experienced within ICT lessons.

The 4 ICT suites are available on a booking system to accommodate use by other subject areas and many faculties have their own ICT suites; Art, Design & Technology, Health & Social Care, Mathematics, Media Studies, Music & Modern Foreign Languages.