Computing (GCSE option - Computer Science)

Belong 

The Computer Science curriculum provides an inclusive and cohesive education that enriches lives and empowers young people to use technology responsibly and creatively. It advances education so that students lead fulfilling lives and make meaningful contributions to their communities and society through informed, ethical use of digital systems.   

The curriculum develops deep knowledge of computational principles through coherent sequencing and revisiting of key concepts. It aims to ensure all learners - regardless of background or prior attainment - can write, test and refine code, understand algorithms, and critically evaluate the impact of technology. The subject promotes logical reasoning, precision and curiosity, encouraging students to move from using technology to creating it.   

Resilience is cultivated through debugging and iterative problem-solving; Responsibility through ethical computing and data security; Empathy through teamwork and accessibility; and Respect through safe, responsible engagement with digital environments.   

Thrive   

Teaching in Computer Science integrates retrieval practice to reinforce key concepts such as binary logic, algorithms and programming syntax. Schema-building connects understanding across topics - linking hardware, software and systems. Spaced practice supports long-term retention of computational knowledge, while cognitive load theory ensures new content is introduced in manageable, sequential steps.   

Teachers use diagnostic questioning, code analysis and peer feedback to address misconceptions. Practical programming, problem-based tasks and theory lessons work together to ensure knowledge and skills develop concurrently. Professional collaboration and CPD sustain high-quality instruction and consistency across key stages.   

Resilience is developed through debugging and perseverance; Responsibility through digital ethics and cyber safety; Empathy through designing inclusive digital systems; and Respect through awareness of diversity in global technology use.   

Achieve 

Students leave Edgar Wood Academy as confident digital citizens who understand the principles of computing and its impact on society. They can analyse problems, design solutions, and evaluate outcomes critically. Students leave with an understanding in computational contexts, applying logic, creativity and responsibility in digital work.   

The Computer Science curriculum reflects Altus Education Partnership's mission to advance education that empowers young people to lead fulfilling lives and make positive contributions to society. It also embodies the school’s values of Resilience, Responsibility, Empathy and Respect through ethical, creative and collaborative practice. 

GCSE Computer Science

GCSE Computer Science helps you understand how computers really work through investigation tasks and learning how to program using high-level programming languages.  

This course will give you the fundamental knowledge of computers, how they are programmed and essentially how they work. You will learn how to create simple computer programs, gain an understanding of the fundamental concepts around creating software applications and have opportunities to work collaboratively. 

For more information on what will be studied and how it will be assessed in Computer Science in years 10 and 11, please refer to our Year 9 GCSE Options Booklet.

Learning Journeys in Computing