Computing
For more information about the curriculum at Westfield, please contact enquiries@westfield.chorustrust.org.
Faculty Leader: Mr Higgins
Computing Curriculum at Westfield School
At Westfield School, we offer a dynamic and forward-thinking Computing curriculum designed to empower students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the digital world. Our faculty is committed to delivering quality-first teaching that not only fosters technical competence but also inspires students to become passionate, independent learners and problem solvers. By linking our teaching to real-world applications, we ensure students are prepared for the challenges and opportunities they will face in the workplace and beyond.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9): Building Strong Foundations
Our Key Stage 3 Computing curriculum aims to provide a broad and balanced introduction to the world of computer science, digital design, and entrepreneurship. We focus on developing essential digital skills and fostering a love for learning through practical and engaging activities. Throughout these three years, students will be exposed to a wide range of topics designed to ignite curiosity, promote creativity, and nurture resilience.
Core areas of study include:
- Programming: Students will learn key programming languages such as Scratch, Python, and JavaScript. Through coding projects, students will develop problem-solving skills, logical thinking, and the ability to create functional software solutions.
- Digital Literacy: Students will explore internet safety, online ethics, and digital communication. This ensures they can navigate the digital world responsibly and securely.
- Computer Systems: Students will be introduced to computer hardware, software, and networks, giving them a solid understanding of how devices work and how information is transmitted across the internet.
- Creative Technology: We encourage students to explore digital design through tasks like graphic design and multimedia creation.
- Entrepreneurship and Real-World Connections: Students will have opportunities to think like digital entrepreneurs, applying their skills in projects that mimic the real-world challenges faced by professionals in the computing and tech industries.
Our curriculum ensures that students are not only gaining technical proficiency but are also developing a growth mindset, viewing challenges as opportunities to learn and improve.
Key Stage 4 (GCSE Options)
As students progress to Key Stage 4, they can choose to study one of the following subjects, each designed to deepen their understanding of computing and prepare them for further education or the workforce:
- Computer Science (GCSE): This course delves deeper into programming, algorithms, and the theory behind computer systems. Students will engage with more advanced coding projects, including Python programming, and study topics such as data representation, cyber security, and ethical computing.
- Business (GCSE): Our Business curriculum incorporates digital skills in the context of the business world, ensuring students can apply computing to areas like digital marketing, e-commerce, and data management.
- iMedia (OCR Cambridge Nationals): This course focuses on creative digital media, including graphic design, character design, and comic creation. Students will learn how to develop engaging characters and stories through digital tools, gaining the skills needed for roles in the growing creative digital industries.
Our Teaching Philosophy
At Westfield School, we strive to provide a nurturing environment where students are empowered to become independent problem solvers. Our teachers model enthusiasm for computing, inspiring students through engaging lessons, practical projects, and real-world connections. We are dedicated to embedding knowledge retrieval and offering consistent opportunities for review and reflection, ensuring that students make continuous progress throughout their journey in computing.
By the end of their studies at Westfield, students will be well-prepared to pursue further studies in computing or related fields, equipped with both the technical expertise and the entrepreneurial mindset necessary for success in a rapidly changing world.
Our Vision
As part of the Westfield Way, we aim to create a computing curriculum that is both challenging and inspiring. We value learning as the cornerstone of success and strive to inspire excellence, enabling every student to be the best that they can be.
Through our curriculum, we prepare students to take on leadership roles in the digital world, whether as computer scientists, digital designers, or entrepreneurs, ensuring they are ready to make a meaningful impact in the world of work.