Curriculum intent
The influence of computing in shaping the world in which we now live has been profound, so much so that for the next generation every job will be a technological job to some degree.
At Tuxford Academy, our computing curriculum is diverse and is aimed at inspiring a generation of problem solvers who are digitally literate, value technological know-how and appreciate where computing can take them. Our curriculum enables students to develop a breadth of knowledge that will ensure they become effective users of technology. Computer literacy will be essential to students across their subjects and later in the workplace. The way we teach exemplifies the use of IT as a tool with students benefitting from elements of learning often delivered through Microsoft Teams. Our curriculum also generates a desire amongst students to explore the current and potential role of technology in the modern world as they gain experiences of coding and how computers work.
Our key stage 3 provision provides a foundation knowledge in alignment with the national curriculum, from which students can later choose to specialise by pursuing a range of key stage 4 pathways relating to ICT, digital media and computer science. All of our students gain a platform knowledge in the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms. Students also develop their knowledge in the principles and tools of creative media. When combined with confidence in digital literacy, our curriculum has great breadth and richness.
Embedded within our curriculum is student personal development. Students explore the role of IT in society locally and globally in order to develop their own ethical viewpoints about the impact of our use of technology. Our students learn to be safe online and respect others online, and therefore our curriculum has a central role in creating effective digital citizens.
Our curriculum fosters students who think like a computer scientist or project manager, as they learn to enjoy challenge and problem solving. We believe the best way to learn to become a problem solver is often through real life scenarios that stem from business scenarios as this also encourages students to see the opportunities presented by computing in the workplace. Across these activities we actively teach students to develop persistence and resilience as they pursue solutions to problems.
Our classroom curriculum in enriched through extracurricular opportunities that provide students with a platform to further develop and showcase their knowledge in increasingly broader arenas. They also allow students to see the subject in action and deepen their understanding and appreciation.
