COMPUTING & MEDIA

GADGETS, gizmos, a 24-hour global media world, the unrelenting rise of the digital age…

From the Internet and multi-media to the creativity of photography, video and even computer games.

Computing and Media is all about the here and now, the real and virtual! It shows us the tools we use to shape our modern world and gives us the skills to use them effectively. It’s a trip along the super-information highway that prepares students for 21st century life through the use of new technologies.

Department Staff and Responsibilities

Mr D Smedley, Teaching and Learning Manager for Computer Science, Media and IT

Mr R Mather, Teacher of Computer Science and Media

Miss Z Salim, Teacher of Computer Science

Mr P Dean, Teacher of Computer Science and Media

Key Stage 3

At Key Stage Three all students participate in fun and creative programmes of study. Students are introduced to a wide variety of software which will enhance their skills and engage them in the subject area. Students complete set units of work, all of which they will be assessed upon based on the national curriculum levelling framework.

Year 7 – topics:

  • Online Safety
  • Control technology
  • Scratch
  • Impacts of technology and cyber security

Year 8 – Topics:

  • Computer systems
  • Data representations
  • Networks and HTML
  • Data analysis

Year 9 – Topics:

  • Python programming
  • Photoshop design
  • Spreadsheets
  • Databases
  • Market Research
  • Visual Identity

Key Stage 4

Media

At Key Stage 4 students are offered the opportunity to study for the Cambridge National iMedia award. This is offered through the OCR exam board. Learners complete the course which is equivalent to a GCSE. Some of the units that they could study are; digital graphics, Animation, website design, photography, film making and many more. A pre-production exam makes up the final part of the qualification. An ideal subject for those students who enjoy writing and creativity.

Computer Science

At Key Stage 4 students are offered the opportunity to study the computer science GCSE. This is offered through the AQA exam board. The computer science qualification is made up of textual programming in python. Students will get to understand in further detail programming, networking, computer systems and networks as well as many other aspects of computer science it.

OCR Cambridge National in IT

At KS4, students have the opportunity to study the OCR Cambridge National in IT, a vocational qualification designed to equip learners with practical skills and knowledge relevant to the modern digital world. This course focuses on developing key competencies in areas such as data manipulation, IT systems, and effective use of digital tools. Through hands-on projects and real-world scenarios, students gain a deeper understanding of topics like cybersecurity, creating digital products, and using IT for business solutions. The course is assessed through a combination of practical tasks and examinations, allowing students to showcase both their theoretical understanding and applied skills. This qualification provides an excellent foundation for further education or careers in IT-related fields, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and technical expertise. It is an engaging and accessible pathway for students to explore their interests in technology while preparing for a digital future

Subject Intent and Learning Journey

The following link outlines what students will learn at each stage of their journey at Bedford in Computing and Media. This includes the key knowledge, skills and concepts they will encounter through their exciting and aspirational journey in Computing and Media. Computer Science Curriculum Intent and Learning Journey, Computing Curriculum Intent and Learning Journey, Media Curriculum Intent and Learning Journey