Mr N Seabridge
Head of Digital Enterprise
Statement of Intent:
Through high standards, “Together As One”, we will instil a love for the digital world, enterprise and creativity with the immense possibilities that they provide by:
Excelling academically and be able to apply skills and knowledge into the wider world.
Thinking responsibly about the impact of digital technology and globalisation on people’s lives and communities.
Learning how to be creative, innovative and World Ready.
Key Stage 3 information and summary of content:
At Key Stage 3, pupils study Computing and develop the digital literacy, computational thinking and problem-solving skills needed to thrive in an increasingly technological world. The curriculum provides a strong foundation for further study in Computer Science, Digital Media and Business.
Key Areas of Study
- Digital Literacy and Online Safety
- Computer Systems and Hardware
- Networks and Cyber Security
- Data Representation
- Algorithms and Computational Thinking
- Programming using Visual and Text-Based Languages
- Data Handling and Analysis
- Digital Creativity and Emerging Technologies
Pupils develop confidence in using technology safely, responsibly and effectively whilst learning how digital systems impact everyday life.
Key Stage 4 information and summary of content:
At Key Stage 4, pupils have the opportunity to study a range of qualifications that reflect the diverse nature of the digital and business sectors.
GCSE Computer Science (OCR)
Pupils develop a deeper understanding of computer systems, computational thinking and programming.
Key Areas of Study:
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Computer Systems
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Memory and Storage
- Computer Networks
- Cyber Security
- Data Representation
- Algorithms
- Programming in Python
- Ethical, Legal, Cultural and Environmental Impacts of Technology
Students develop analytical and problem-solving skills through both theoretical study and practical programming.
Digital Information Technology (Edexcel)
This vocational qualification allows pupils to explore how digital technologies are used within organisations.
Key Areas of Study:
- Using Digital Systems
- Collecting, Presenting and Interpreting Data
- Effective Digital Working Practices
- Project Planning and Digital Solutions
Students develop practical skills that reflect modern workplace practices.
Creative iMedia (OCR)
Creative iMedia develops pupils' understanding of digital media production and creative design.
Key Areas of Study:
- Pre-Production Skills
- Digital Graphics
- Interactive Multimedia Products
- Digital Sound
- Media Planning and Production
Students combine creativity and technical skills to create professional-quality digital products.
GCSE Business (Edexcel)
Pupils develop an understanding of how businesses operate and make decisions in local, national and global markets.
Key Areas of Study:
- Business Activity and Enterprise
- Marketing
- Operations Management
- Human Resources
- Finance
- Influences on Business
- Business Growth and Strategy
Students learn to apply business concepts to real-world scenarios and contemporary business issues.
Key Stage 5 information and summary of content:
At Key Stage 5, students can specialise in Computer Science, Digital Media and Business, developing advanced knowledge and skills that support progression to higher education, apprenticeships and employment.
A Level Computer Science (OCR)
Key Areas of Study:
- Programming and Software Development
- Algorithms and Computational Thinking
- Data Structures
- Computer Systems and Architecture
- Networks and Cyber Security
- Databases
- Ethical, Legal and Moral Issues
- Independent Programming Project
Students develop logical thinking, creativity and advanced problem-solving skills whilst applying mathematical concepts to computational challenges.
Level 3 Digital Media (OCR)
Students explore how digital media products are planned, created and evaluated within the creative industries.
Key Areas of Study:
- Media Production
- Digital Design
- Media Planning and Research
- Audience and Industry Analysis
- Creative Project Development
- Professional Media Practices
Students produce industry-standard media products whilst developing technical and creative expertise.
A Level Business (Edexcel)
Key Areas of Study:
- Marketing and People
- Managing Business Activities
- Business Decisions and Strategy
- Global Business
Students develop analytical, evaluative and decision-making skills through the study of real business contexts and contemporary issues.
BTEC Business (Edexcel)
Key Areas of Study:
- Exploring Business
- Developing a Marketing Campaign
- Personal and Business Finance
- Recruitment and Selection
- Business Operations and Management
Students gain practical knowledge and transferable skills that prepare them for employment, apprenticeships and further study.
Enrichment Activities:
To foster curiosity, creativity and ambition beyond the classroom, pupils across all key stages are provided with a wide range of enrichment opportunities that enhance their understanding of Computing, Digital Media and Business.
These include:
- Visits to educational and historical sites such as Bletchley Park.
- Participation in coding clubs, programming challenges and computing competitions.
- Cyber security and online safety workshops.
- Enterprise and entrepreneurship activities.
- Digital media production projects and creative design opportunities.
- Careers events, employer engagement and encounters with industry professionals.
- STEM enrichment activities and cross-curricular projects.
- Guest speakers and virtual workshops from subject experts.
- Participation in national events such as Safer Internet Day, Black History Month, Women's History Month, Mental Health Awareness Week and Anti-Bullying Week.
Pupils also explore the contributions of significant individuals and events that have shaped the digital world, media industries and business landscape, including:
- The work of the codebreakers at Bletchley Park and the impact of Station X during the Second World War.
- The achievements of pioneers such as Ada Lovelace, Charles Babbage, Alan Turing, Grace Hopper, Katherine Johnson, Margaret Hamilton, Tim Berners-Lee, Vint Cerf and Bob Kahn.
- The role of innovation, entrepreneurship and leadership in shaping modern businesses and global economies.
- The impact of technology, media and globalisation on society and everyday life.
These opportunities help pupils develop cultural capital, broaden their horizons and gain a deeper understanding of how digital technology, media and business influence the modern world, preparing them for future education, careers and life beyond school.
Further reading:
- The Media Student’s Book – Gill Branston and Roy Stafford
- The Story of Film: A concise history of film and an odyssey of international cinema – Mark Cousins
- Digital Culture: Understanding New Media – Glen Creeber and Royston Martin
- Key Themes in Media Theory – Dan Laughey
- Convergence Culture: Where Old and New Media Collide – Henry Jenkins
- Key Concepts and Skills for Media Studies – James Baker
