At Key Stage 3, learners will develop their computational thinking and graphic design skills in DigiTech lessons. Learners will be given the opportunity to make use of BBC micro:bits and other digital technologies to learn how they work in order to design and create algorithms and programs which can be used to solve a wide range of real-world problems. Learners will also be able to creatively design assets such as logos and animations in order to respond to a given context. Learners should be able to apply knowledge and skills learnt when making design decisions in order to produce specific outcomes.
At Key Stage 4, learners have the option to choose to study one of the following courses, GCSE Digital Technology or GCSE Computer Science. GCSE Digital Technology will allow learners to develop their understanding of the range of digital technology systems at use in our connected and globalised society. It will also allow learners to explore the ever-evolving nature of digital technology systems and how these systems can be used productively, creatively and safely. GCSE Computer Science provides an opportunity to investigate how computers work, to develop computational thinking, computer programming and problem-solving skills.
At Key Stage 3, learners will develop their design thinking skills, problem-solving skills, confidence and knowledge to produce specific outcomes. Learners will select and safely use appropriate tools to combine components, materials and processes to achieve functionality and improve the effectiveness of their outcomes. Learners will rotate through a variety of disciplines such as Cooking, Textiles, Resistant Materials, Graphics, Control, CAD and Systems.
At Key Stage 4, learners have a wealth of vocational and GCSE qualifications to choose from in Design Technology such as Constructing the Built Environment, Engineering, Fashion and Textiles, Hospitality and Catering, Practical Engineering and Product Design. Learners will get hands-on learning experiences and develop their design thinking skills to test and refine design decisions. Learners have the opportunity to safely use specialist tools and techniques in order to develop and construct prototypes and outcomes to prepare them for the real world of work.
Students studying in 2023 will live and work through a time of great change, focussing on their STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Maths) skills will enable pupils to progress in a world with climate change, AI and automation.
Our STEM work starts with the Cluster Schools at Progression Step 1 with a bespoke curriculum strand based on Sustainability, STEM and CWRE (Careers and Work Related Experiences). Students are guided through tasks and challenges that develop their specific skills from age 4. Each progression step in the STEM curriculum develops on the last and when they get to PS4 they are linking STEM with their Post 16 pathways which may indeed be in a STEM area.
We work closely with local Marine Energy companies and stakeholders such as MHPA, PCNPA and the Coastal Forum, they help to engage students in activities such as targeted interventions like the IRATA (Rope Access Training) experience for Year 9 and the ROV submersible project that is being supported. BlueGem wind support our Skills and Talent learners- who work on a Friday afternoon in the College to complete a BTEC L2 qualification in Marine Green Energy.
Progression step 3 is our transition project which engages Year 6. We visit all year 6 classes in the cluster and launch a wind power experiment and design challenge project, it is supported by a Youtube channel and Google site. The culmination of this project is the annual STEMFest (held for the first time this July).
