The school is known for its holistic and cutting-edge approach to ICT and all pupils have access to the latest laptop computers. The laptops include both PCs, running Windows and Office, and Apple Macs. They are housed in trolleys and all classrooms are equipped with data projectors; this means that any classroom can be turned into an ICT suite in minutes, leading to the widespread use of computers across the curriculum.
In Years 10 and 11, pupils study for the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL). This is a practical post-16 level qualification which gives pupils a significant advantage in the workplace. Most pupils achieve the ITQ Level 2 Certificate but some go onto achieve a Level 3 Certifcate which is equivalent to AS level. When pupils leave our school they have a computer proficiency that surpasses many adults in the workplace and are often surprised when colleges ask them to take the ECDL - they already have it!
Laptops also facilitate the study of certain elements of Design and Technology. Pupils use Lego Robolab to build and programme robotic models, for example, a funfair ride and a mechanical clearance machine. The array of PC and Apple laptops mean that pupils have the opportunity to make extensive use of software like Photoshop, Flash, Dreamweaver and Google Sketchup to create photo montages, animations, websites and CAD designs as well as learning proficient use of Microsoft Office 2007.
Peter's Story
Fascinated by computers and with a questioning and excellent mathematical brain, Peter was never found far from a laptop and a programming C++ textbook. As well as his ECDL, Peter achieved A*s in Maths and Personal Finance, and A grades in Science, Additional Science, Business Studies, Geography and Religious Studies. Peter has gone on to take A levels at the independent sixth form, Mander Portman Woodward.
The school is a leader in harnessing the latest computer technology to facilitate learning.
