Year 9 Options Course Information Video
Course Description
Computing at the Academy provides every student with the opportunity to explore the world of Computer Science, Information Technology, Business Enterprise and Creative Media. All KS3 students have one hour per week of Computing, where they develop essential digital skills and confidence in an increasingly technological world.
Technology and global communication play an ever-growing role in our everyday lives. We aim to ensure that all students are fully prepared for the digital world they face, feeling confident and capable in their computing abilities.
KS3 Core Computing
Year 7
The key aims of our Computing curriculum in Year 7 are to:
- Embed key e-safety expectations and protect students from potential online risks.
- Equip students with the skills and confidence to succeed in future computing studies.
- Ensure students can use technology effectively to support their wider learning.
- Develop essential IT skills that will benefit them both in and out of school.
Units covered include:
- Computer Hardware and Components
- Digital Literacy and Online Safety
- File Management and Microsoft Office Skills
- iDEA Digital Skills Award
- Flowcharts and Computational Thinking
- Vector Graphics Design
Year 8
The key aims of our Computing curriculum in Year 8 are:
Students build on their foundational skills and begin to explore more advanced computing concepts. They also begin light programming work, bridging the gap between block-based and text-based coding.
Units covered include:
- Digital Literacy and Online Safety
- Microsoft Excel and Data Handling
- Binary and Data Representation
- Python Programming (EduBlocks to full Python)
- Computing History and Retro Programming
- Physical Computing Projects
Year 9
The key aims of our Computing curriculum in Year 9 are:
Students begin to specialise and experience areas that align closely with our KS4 pathways, including Creative iMedia and Computer Science.
Units covered include:
- Python Programming (Sequence, Selection, Iteration)
- Logic Gates and Boolean Logic
- Data Representation and Hexadecimal
- Cybersecurity and Networks
- Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
- Creative Digital Media Projects (Graphics and Design aligned with iMedia)
KS4 Creative iMedia
At KS4, students can opt to continue their studies in Computing by choosing OCR Creative iMedia (2022 specification). This hands-on, creative qualification introduces students to professional digital media production, combining technical skill with creative flair.
Students learn transferable skills that support success across all subjects, higher education, and future employment. They gain experience using industry-standard software from Adobe, Microsoft and other professional platforms, developing both their creative and technical abilities.
Components
R093 – Creative iMedia in the Media Industry
This is the examined component of the course. Students explore media sectors, products, and job roles while learning about legal, ethical, and regulatory considerations. They develop an understanding of how media products are planned and distributed in real-world contexts.
R094 – Visual Identity and Digital Graphics
Students plan and create a visual identity for a client brief, producing professional-quality digital graphics using software such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. They learn to apply design principles, consider target audiences, and understand how effective visual communication supports branding.
R095 – Characters and Comic Strips
Students plan, design and produce a multi-page digital comic in response to a set client brief. They create original characters and settings, develop page layouts with panels, captions and speech balloons, and use digital tools to ink, colour, letter and composite—refining through testing and feedback to meet audience and purpose.
This curriculum equips students with a broad, adaptable skill set across computing disciplines. From coding and problem-solving to creative digital design, our aim is to help every learner develop the confidence, creativity and technical knowledge needed to thrive in the modern digital world.