Information Communication Technology

All pupils study ICT as a distinct subject in years 7 to 9, with a significant number choosing either OCR Nationals Level 2 ICT or ICT Diploma in years 10 and 11. Those that do not choose ICT still continue to learn and update their skills while using ICT across the curriculum.

There are three dedicated computer suites, with a fourth primarily for use by the ICT Diploma, providing facilities throughout the school.

In Key Stage 3 pupils follow the Smart Skills Builder scheme, which teaches the basic skills through ‘real life’ scenarios and projects. Web page and computer graphics are also introduced through these lessons. Topics are up to date, with the texts being augmented to add in current events and school involvement in other areas such as the International Schools program.

The OCR Nationals ICT Level 2 is a popular option choice for year 10 and 11. Unit 1, Skills for Business is the mandatory unit; Web Creation, Web Graphics, Desktop Publishing and Web Animation are just a sample of the additional units available. Our results this past year: 100% A*-C

The Diploma in Information Technology, now in its second year is also proving a popular choice. Offered to pupils across Portsmouth and delivered at St Edmunds, the diploma course mixes theory in the classroom with functional skills, practical projects, life skills and work experience. The course focuses on four main themes:

• Business: The role technology plays within organisations
• People: How to work well with people
• Technology: How to create technology solutions
• Cross-platform Multimedia: How to create multimedia solutions

The ICT department offers a range of extracurricular activities, including:

• Faith and Football Challenge (winners 2009/2010 challenge, Faith and Flame)
• HMS GLOUCESTER Club (we affiliated with the ship July 2010)
• After school catch-up sessions, for ICT and any other subject where pupils need to complete class work or do homework