Welcome to the Computer Science Department
Technology shapes almost every part of modern life, and in Computer Science, students learn how technology works, how to create with it, and how to use it responsibly.
Our curriculum is practical, relevant and designed for all learners. Students develop programming, problem-solving and digital skills that are useful in everyday life as well as their future careers.
We teach using industry-relevant tools and languages including Python, C#, SQL, Microsoft Excel and PowerBI all of which are among the most widely tools and languages in the world today. In addition, online safety and cyber security are covered every year, helping students protect themselves and others in a connected world.
Why learn Computer Science in the age of AI?
A question we often get asked - it is important to understand that while AI is very powerful, it is still created, trained and controlled by people. Learning Computer Science helps students understand how AI works, how to use it responsibly, and how to spot errors, bias or misinformation.
Our Department
We are proud of the strength of our department:
- Five specialist Computer Science teachers with a variety of industrial experience and skills
- Eight purpose-built computer suites across the school
- GCSE and BTEC students gain 0.68 of a grade higher than national averages
- A-level students average B+ grade, with vocational course students average a Distinction
- A range of enrichment opportunities, including:
- Minecraft Club
- Computer Club
- KS4 and KS5 lunchtime drop-in support sessions
Courses Offered
- GCSE Computer Science (AQA)
- BTEC Tech Award in Digital Information Technology (Pearson)
- A Level Computer Science (AQA)
- AAQ Data Analytics (Cambridge Advanced National - first taught in 2025)
Year 7
Students learn how to use computers safely and confidently, while creating their first programs and digital products.
- Logging in securely, organising files and searching the internet effectively
- Staying safe online, including social media risks and digital footprints
- Understanding cyber threats such as viruses and malware
- Creating simple programs using decisions and repetition
- Designing a basic website that is easy for everyone to use
Year 8
Students move onto text-based programming and explore how computers store data and work internally.
- Writing programs in Python (a widely used programming language)
- Using decisions and loops to control how programs behave
- Understanding how computers store images, sound and text as data
- Learning how parts of a computer work together (CPU, memory, storage)
- Protecting information using encryption and building simple physical computing projects
Year 9
Students apply their skills through larger projects such as game development, start to learn how to manipulate data, and explore the impacts of modern technologies.
- Using Microsoft Excel to analyse data and create charts
- Designing and creating a computer game using Python
- Exploring how technology affects jobs, society and everyday life
- Learning about artificial intelligence and large-scale data
- Understanding modern security, encryption and cryptocurrency
Choosing between the GCSE and BTEC
It is also possible to choose both of our KS4 course should you wish to fully immerse yourself in the world of computing.
Alternatively, we would suggest choosing GCSE Computer Science if you enjoy programming and understanding how technology works.
Or, you could opt for BTEC Digital Information Technology if you prefer practical tasks using software and creating digital products.
GCSE Computer Science
Ideal for students who enjoy problem-solving, maths and programming.
Topics include:
- Writing computer programs using Python to solve real problems
- How computing devices work internally
- Networks such as Wi-Fi, the internet and Bluetooth
- Storing data such as images, sound and video
- Cyber security and protecting devices
- Ethical issues such as electronic waste and AI
- Legal issues such as protecting personal data
- Storing and retrieving data in databases using SQL
Assessment: Two written exams at the end of Year 11 (50% each)
BTEC Digital Information Technology
Ideal for students who prefer practical coursework and creating digital products.
Topics include:
- Designing apps and websites that can be used by everyone
- Planning and managing digital projects
- Collecting, analysing and presenting data
- Understanding how organisations use information
- Legal, ethical and security issues
- Protecting information from cyber threats
Assessment: Two coursework units taken during Year 10 (30%) and Year 11 (30%). Written exam at the end of Year 11 (40%)
A Level Computer Science
Students build on the knowledge from GCSE, developing deeper programming skills and a much more detailed understanding of how computers and large digital systems work as well as complete a substantial programming project.
Students learn how to:
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Writing larger, more complex programs to solve real-world problems
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Understanding how data is stored and processed inside computers
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How hardware, operating systems and processors work together
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How networks and the internet transfer data around the world
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Databases and Big Data used by organisations to make decisions
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The social, ethical and environmental impact of technology
Assessment: Two written exams at the end of Year 13 (80%). Programming project (20%)
Entry requirements: Typically grade 6 or above in GCSE Mathematics and Computer Science.
AAQ Data Analytics (OCR Cambridge Advanced National)
New for first teaching September 2025
This course focuses on how organisations use data to make decisions - one of the fastest-growing areas of employment.
Students learn how to:
- Collect, clean and analyse data
- Use specialist software to find patterns and trends
- Present data clearly using dashboards and visualisations
- Understand how data is used in business, healthcare and government
- Apply ethical and legal rules when working with data
Assessment: One coursework unit and written exam taken at the end of Year 12. One coursework unit and written exam taken during Year 13. One further coursework unit taken at the end of Year 13.
Entry requirements: None.
Careers and Future Opportunities
Computer Science opens doors to many high-demand, well-paid careers, including:
- Software and app development
- Data science and analytics
- Artificial intelligence
- Cyber security and ethical hacking
- Game development
- Network engineering
- Digital forensics
- Engineering and scientific research
These skills are valued by universities, employers and training providers alike. Students often progress to university degrees, higher and degree apprenticeships that combine work and further study.
Computer Science also complements Mathematics and the sciences, supporting a wide range of future career paths.
Contact email address: headofcomputing@poolehigh.poole.sch.uk