The Computer Science and ICT department at KGA Brune Park aims to equip learners with the skills needed to be successful when using technology and survive in the dynamic and ever changing digital environment.
We aim to equip pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand a changing world.
Computer Science has deep links with Mathematics, Science, and Design and Technology, and provides insights into both natural and artificial systems. In Computer Science, pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Building on this knowledge and understanding, students are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Computer Science also ensures that pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.
Key Stage 3
Key Stage 3 Computing at King’s Academy Brune Park
At King’s Academy Brune Park, we deliver a dynamic and forward-thinking Computing curriculum for our Key Stage 3 students. Since its introduction to the National Curriculum in 2014, Computing has rapidly evolved to equip young people with the skills needed in an increasingly technology-driven world. Our curriculum draws on the latest research into adolescent brain development, as well as the expertise of leaders from the tech industry.
Our Key Stage 3 programme covers both Computer Science and Information Technology, offering a varied and engaging syllabus. The curriculum is carefully sequenced over the three years to build knowledge progressively, with each topic acting as a foundation for the next. We also make clear, meaningful connections to other subjects, including Maths, Science, Design and Technology, Art, Geography, and Business Studies, helping students see the broader relevance of their learning.
This holistic approach ensures that our students not only master technical skills but also develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, preparing them for success in school and beyond.
A Learning Experience Tailored to Your Child
Every project your child works on is structured with clear goals, which are shared upfront. We know that engaging students emotionally is key to keeping them motivated, so we start each project with an exciting “Hook” to capture their interest. From there, the students’ learning journey is laid out, helping them to understand how their knowledge and skills will grow throughout the project.
What’s more, we encourage our students to take ownership of their learning. Outcomes and skill development can be negotiated with the students themselves, fostering critical thinking and decision-making. By participating in this process, your child becomes more engaged in their learning and develops a deeper understanding of the material.
Preparing for the Future
We live in a rapidly changing world, and the skills your child will need are evolving, too. Our Computing curriculum not only equips students with essential technical skills but also helps them develop metacognition—the ability to think about their own thinking. This prepares them for a future that is difficult to predict but full of possibilities.
We are excited to partner with you in your child’s education journey and look forward to welcoming them to King’s Academy Brune Park, where we are committed to preparing them for life in the 21st century.
For more information on the Computing Curriculum, visit the Raspberry Pi Foundation’s Key Stage 3 resources here.
Key Stage 4
AQA GCSE Computer Science
This course helps pupils develop an understanding of computer science methods in the real world – pupils will decompose and model aspects of real-world situations, and as a result be able to design, build and test a fully-programmed solution to a problem. Pupils develop knowledge and understanding of how technology can be used to help proactively with current issues that impact on modern society, preparing them for their next steps in today’s global world.
OCR Cambridge National Information Technologies
This course improves pupils’ knowledge of the digital environment and their confidence with IT. They learn about data management issues and develop practical skills by planning and creating an integrated technological solution to communicate information. Knowing how and why data is gathered and being able to turn raw data into something meaningful is essential as pupils move through education and into employment. To be able to do this they will need to have the confidence to use a range of information technology that is currently available, as well as being adaptable and resilient enough to deal with the rapid advances