Business & IT

  GCSE Business    
  Course Content The GCSE in Business is in two units:       

Theme 1: Investigating Small Business     
Theme 1 concentrates on the key business concepts, issues and skills involved in starting and running a small business. It provides a framework for students to explore core concepts through the lens of an entrepreneur setting up a business.        

Theme 2: Building a Business     
Theme 2 examines how a business develops beyond the start-up phase. It focuses on the key business concepts, issues and decisions used to grow a business, with an emphasis on aspects of marketing, operations, finance and human resources. It also considers the impact of the wider world on the decisions a business makes as it grows.     
   Course  Assessment Both units are assessed by a final, written examination in Year 11.   
  Progression/  Careers  Information All business courses can help to prepare students for further and higher education such as AS/A2 Levels and BTEC and NVQ courses. Students will become skilled in making decisions, being creative, solving problems, understanding finance, dealing with data, communicating and working as part of team.       A GCSE Business course could lead to work in a business-related profession such as Accountancy, Law, Marketing or the Leisure and Tourism Industry.          
   Additional  Information Previous business knowledge is not essential to study GCSE Business.   

KS3 Computing CURRICULUM
 TERM 1TERM 2TERM 3
Year 7Digital Literacy & Judging Information
Students master application navigation and formatting tools. Through hands-on activities, they learn to critically evaluate digital information, honing crucial thinking skills for academic success in the digital era.  

Under the Hood
Students explore computing device history, from calculators to supercomputers. Engaging lessons dissect key components like processors and storage, fostering a comprehensive understanding of digital systems’ inner workings and their evolution.
Harry Plotter
Students explore spreadsheets, mastering formulas and formatting techniques in scenarios inspired by Hogwalk’s School for Witches and Wizards. Through immersive activities, they manipulate data, solve problems, and create dynamic models, merging magical themes with practical spreadsheet skills.  

Developing a Computer Game
Students utilise Scratch to create computer games, mastering programming concepts like sequence, selection, and iteration. Through practical application, they develop problem-solving skills and grasp computational thinking principles, vital for navigating today’s digital landscape.
Computational Thinking & Control Systems
In Computational Thinking & Control Systems, students use Flowol to develop algorithms, nurturing computational thinking. Practical exercises guide them in designing and implementing instructions for system control, paving the way for understanding automation and real-world problem-solving.  

Digital Citizenship & E-Safety
In Digital Citizenship & E-Safety, students learn responsible online behaviour and safety strategies. Through discussions and scenarios, they navigate social media, protect personal information, and address online risks, fostering conscientious digital citizenship and preparedness for today’s interconnected world.
Year 8Using Computers Safely & Judging Information
In this unit, students learn crucial digital skills for safe online navigation. They master file management, understand file types, and organise their data efficiently. They also explore topics like internet safety, email communication, and evaluating online information, ensuring they’re equipped for responsible digital citizenship.  

Understanding Computers
Students delve into hardware and software fundamentals, identifying examples and constructing block diagrams illustrating CPU, input, output, and storage devices. Hands-on activities explore concepts like RAM, ROM, binary representation, and ASCII encoding. They also analyse storage device strengths, weaknesses, and emerging technology’s implications for future computing.
Crime Stoppers – Database Development
In this unit, students learn to create and manage databases effectively through the scenario of solving crimes!  They explore examples of public internet-accessible databases, design tables with various data types, and grasp the importance of primary keys. Through practical tasks, they develop skills in creating input forms, querying databases, and generating basic reports.  

Intro to Python & MicroBits
Students are introduced to Python programming language and MicroBits. They learn basic programming concepts through hands-on activities, coding simple programs to control MicroBits. Through experimentation and problem-solving, students gain foundational skills in programming and hardware interaction, fostering creativity and computational thinking.
Algorithms & Computational Thinking
Students explore the four computational thinking methods: decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithm design. Through engaging activities, they learn to apply these methods to analyse and solve problems effectively, including the design and creation of their own app.  

Digital Citizenship & E-Safety
Through engaging discussions and interactive activities, students gain insights into managing digital footprints, comprehending online reputations, and safely navigating digital environments. By analysing real-life scenarios, students cultivate vital skills for responsible online conduct, empowering them to flourish in the digital landscape.
Year 9Computer Crime & Cyber Security
Students explore digital citizenship and online safety. They learn about relevant Acts, risks of sharing personal data online, and methods for protecting online identity. Through practical exercises, students identify fraudulent emails, adhere to copyright laws, and address health and safety hazards associated with computer use.  

Networks
Students explore networking fundamentals. They understand the Internet as a wide area network, define terms like domain name and HTTP protocol, and grasp concepts like packet switching. Through activities, they learn about LANs, WANs, network topologies, and client-server networks, as well as encryption and cloud computing
Dream Holiday – Spreadsheet Modelling
Students explore computer modelling and spreadsheet skills. They learn to create and format spreadsheet models, use formulas and functions, and analyse ‘what if’ scenarios. Through practical tasks, students develop proficiency in financial modelling, conditional formatting, and chart creation, enhancing their data analysis skills.  

Programming – Python (Next Steps)
Students build on previous programming skills and are introduced to data types, loops, lists, and create functions for modular code. Through trial and error, they debug syntax errors and analyse code functionality, advancing their problem-solving and programming skills.
Exploring User Interface Design
Students prepare for KS4 Digital IT by studying user interface (UI) design principles. They learn about interface types, hardware needs, and accessibility. Design emphasizes layout, colour, and navigation to improve usability, catering to diverse user needs and preferences for intuitive interaction across platforms  

Digital Citizenship & E-Safety
Students explore digital citizenship and e-safety, delving into the dangers of extreme ideologies and misogynistic behaviours online. Through discussions and activities, they learn to recognize and respond to harmful content, fostering responsible online behaviour and promoting a safe and inclusive digital environment.