Key Stage 3 - Computer Science
At Queen’s School, our Key Stage 3 Computer Science curriculum is designed to provide students with essential digital literacy, computational thinking, and problem-solving skills. Aligned with the National Curriculum, this programme equips students with a strong foundation in programming, data representation, cybersecurity, and computer systems.
Students will engage with practical coding tasks, logical problem-solving challenges, and discussions on the ethical and societal impact of technology. Through hands-on experience with programming languages such as Python and block-based coding platforms, they will develop the ability to write, debug, and improve their own code. This course ensures students gain the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world and prepares them for further study and careers in computer science, software engineering, and cybersecurity.
Assessment in Key Stage 3 Computer Science is continuous and skills-based, allowing students to develop confidence in both theoretical knowledge and practical application. Methods include:
- Programming projects to demonstrate coding proficiency.
- Problem-solving tasks using computational thinking strategies.
- Theory assessments covering hardware, software, networks, and data representation.
- Group challenges focusing on real-world computing scenarios.
This structured approach ensures students develop both practical coding skills and theoretical knowledge essential for Key Stage 4 and beyond.
Homework is set weekly to reinforce learning and develop coding skills. Assignments may include:
- Writing and debugging short Python programs.
- Researching emerging technologies and their ethical implications.
- Solving computational thinking puzzles and logic problems.
- Preparing presentations on cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, or digital ethics.
These tasks help students think like computer scientists and apply their knowledge in creative and innovative ways.
Parents have 24/7 access to their child’s academic progress, including coursework submissions, grades, and teacher feedback. Regular progress reports and parent-teacher consultations provide insights into student performance, strengths, and areas for improvement.
While lessons are self-contained, students may find the following resources beneficial for further study:
- BBC Bitesize KS3 Computer Science (online).
- CS Unplugged (computational thinking exercises).
- Python for Beginners (by Al Sweigart or similar introductory guides).
- Computer Science Workbooks from CGP or Collins.
Key Details
Course Outline
The Key Stage 3 Computer Science curriculum is structured to ensure students:
- Develop computational thinking to solve complex problems efficiently.
- Understand computer systems, including hardware, software, and networks.
- Gain confidence in coding and programming languages.
- Learn about cybersecurity threats and online safety.
- Explore the ethical and social implications of technology.
Key Topics Taught
- Computational Thinking: Algorithms, abstraction, decomposition, pattern recognition.
- Programming: Introduction to Python, debugging, control structures (loops, conditionals), data handling.
- Data Representation: Binary, hexadecimal, ASCII, images and sound in digital form.
- Computer Systems: Hardware components, operating systems, memory and storage.
- Networks & Cybersecurity: How the internet works, encryption, cyber threats and online safety.
- Artificial Intelligence & Ethics: The role of AI in society, digital footprints, and responsible computing.
