Key Stage 3

Creating confident, creative and future-ready digital learners

Computing & IT at St Cuthbert Mayne is hands-on, creative and constantly evolving. Technology is changing the world around us, and our curriculum is designed to give every student the skills, confidence and curiosity to thrive in a digital future.

From programming and animation to web design, artificial intelligence and digital creativity, students explore a wide range of exciting topics while developing essential problem-solving, computational thinking and online safety skills. Whether they dream of becoming a game designer, software developer, cybersecurity expert or simply want to be confident using technology, our curriculum provides the perfect foundation.

Year 7 – Discover and Create

Year 7 is all about building confidence and exploring the world of computing through fun, practical projects. Students will:

• Design graphics using industry-style creative software.
• Learn how to stay safe online with a comprehensive E-Safety unit.
• Create interactive programs using Scratch.
• Explore computer hardware and discover what makes a computer work.
• Develop spreadsheet skills for organising and analysing data.
•  Bring ideas to life through animation and digital storytelling.

By the end of Year 7, students have created their own games, animations and digital designs while developing the foundations of programming.

Year 8 – Build and Innovate

Year 8 takes students' creativity and programming skills to the next level with real-world coding and digital design. Students will:

• Learn Python and write their own computer programs.
• Build their own websites using HTML.
• Understand their digital footprint and the laws surrounding technology and online behaviour.
• Create incredible 3D animations in Blender — from launching rockets into space to designing exciting snowball battles.
• Produce professional-quality digital artwork using Photoshop editing tool.
• Learn how computers represent data through binary.

Students also develop greater independence by planning, creating, testing and evaluating their own digital projects.

Year 9 – Design the Future

Year 9 prepares students for GCSE Computing and introduces some of the most exciting technologies shaping the future. Students will:

• Explore Artificial Intelligence (AI) and discover how it works.
• Advance their web design skills using HTML, CSS and JavaScript to create interactive websites.
• Design and develop their own mobile app.
• Continue programming in Python with more challenging projects.
• Learn how computer networks connect the world and keep us communicating securely.

Year 9 encourages students to think like digital creators and innovators, solving problems through technology while developing skills that are valuable in education, employment and everyday life.

Key Stage 4

At Key Stage 4, students have the exciting opportunity to specialise and take their digital skills further, with two different GCSE-level pathways available.

Computer Science

Computer Science is ideal for students who enjoy problem-solving, programming and understanding how technology works. Students develop their coding skills through practical, real-world scenarios while exploring the fundamentals behind modern computer systems.

Topics include programming, computer systems, networks, cybersecurity, data representation and algorithms, giving students an excellent foundation for further study and careers within the rapidly growing technology sector.

Creative iMedia

Creative iMedia is perfect for students who enjoy the creative side of technology. The course combines digital technology with creativity, giving students the opportunity to plan, design and produce professional digital media products.

Students develop practical skills in areas such as graphic design, digital imaging and interactive media, while learning how products are planned and created to meet a client's needs.
Both pathways develop valuable skills for further education, apprenticeships and the workplace, allowing students to choose the route that best suits their interests and future ambitions.

Key Stage 5

At Key Stage 5, students can continue their digital journey with the BTEC AAQ in Information Technology. This exciting qualification combines technical knowledge with practical, real-world skills, preparing students for university, apprenticeships and careers within the rapidly evolving technology industry.
Students study four key areas:

Unit 1 – Information Technology Systems

An externally assessed unit exploring how IT systems work and are used by individuals and organisations. Students investigate hardware, software, networks, data and emerging technologies, as well as the impact that IT has on the modern world.

Unit 2 – Cyber Security and Incident Management

In this externally assessed unit, students enter the increasingly important world of cybersecurity. They explore cyber threats, vulnerabilities and methods of protecting systems and data, as well as how organisations respond to and manage security incidents.

Unit 3 – Website Development

Students put their creativity and technical skills into action by planning, designing, developing and testing their own website. They consider user experience, accessibility and client requirements while developing a professional digital product.

Unit 4 – Relational Database Development

Students discover how organisations use databases to store, organise and manage information effectively. They design and develop their own relational database solution, building valuable practical skills in working with data.

Teaching Team

Mrs H. Gowers
Head of Computing

Ms Virginie

Mr A. Boughton

Mr D. Kirby

Curriculum Summary