Sutton Grammar School was one of the first schools in the country to make the change from teaching ICT to Computer Science from year 7 all the way through to year 13. Computer Science is very popular at our school, and our lessons are designed to engage students who wish to pursue the subject beyond key stage three as well as those who choose other careers. We incorporate the concepts of abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms, and data representation combined with practical computing skills into our lessons so that all students have the tools needed to navigate a world that will include technology in all aspects of daily life.
In addition to our ambitious Computer Science curriculum, students have an abundance of enrichment opportunities designed to complement their understanding of computational thinking. Computer Science students participate in the Bebras Computational Thinking Challenge, the British Algorithmic Olympiad, the British Informatics Olympiad, CyberCenturion, and the Royal Institute’s Computer Science Saturday workshops, to name a few. In addition to external competitions, the department has a student-run Computer Science Society that publishes its own magazine titled “Hello World.” We also run an assortment of student-led programming clubs.
Sutton Grammar School has a fast internet connection, provided by Sutton Local Education Authority and the London Grid for Learning.
The Local Authority also provides the school with a web-based E-Mail system, and each student is given an E-Mail Address. The use of Information Technology in the school is subject to an Acceptable Use Policy. All students are required to sign this document. Importantly, the document sets out rules for the use of the computer labs and the Internet at school, and for the use of the Local Authority’s E-Mail system.
The school provides computers for students to use in several labs with one especially dedicated for sixth-form students as well as computer facilities in the library. Students are able to use school labs for completing homework, further research, or for printing.
Contact Head of Computer Science
The start of KS3 is often the first time students have encountered Computer Science as a discreet subject in school. Due to our admissions policy that allows for multiple feeder schools, we see students with a wide range of prior experiences using computers with some having next to no experience and others quite capable from the start.
Our first directive is to develop confident computer users so that all students are able to access the technology and services needed to have a full and complete, as well as safe, educational experience in secondary school. To better achieve this goal, our year-7 students have two lessons per week in Computer Science. We also aim to introduce students to the basic Computer Science concepts of abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms, and data representation that are part of the National Curriculum. Students are supported through a daily Computing club, available before school, during lunch, and after school.
The KS3 Computer Science curriculum covers safe and responsible ways of working with computers. Students are taught how to work with digital images. Websites are created using HTML and CSS. Our spreadsheet unit offers a gentle introduction to functions and formulas. Databases help teach data types and validation.
Students are taught programming from year 7 using a visual environment with Microbits. In year 8, students transition from Microbits to a text-based environment with Greenfoot Java. Year 9 students spend an extended amount of time learning Greenfoot Java so that they are able to design and create a playable video game.
Additional units cover digital safety, artificial intelligence, and logic. Most Computer Science concepts from the national curriculum are introduced in KS3 so that students have a solid foundation for making the choice as to whether they want to continue studying Computer Science as an option in KS4.
Year 7 Computer Science
Students in year 7 have two Computer Science lessons per week to ensure that they master the basic skills needed to use technology effectively in this department and throughout the school. The following units are covered during the first year.
- Using Computers Safely, Effectively, and Responsibly
- Working with Digital Images
- Website Design and Creation Using HTML and CSS
- Spreadsheet Modelling
- Database Creation
- Microbit Programming
Year 8 Computer Science
Students in year 8 have three Computer Science lessons per fortnight to continue to cement their learning. The following units are covered during the second year of key stage 3.
- Understanding Computers
- Spreadsheet Modelling
- Database Development
- Computational Thinking and Logic
- Microbit Programming
- Introduction to Greenfoot Java
Year 9 Computer Science
Students in year 9 have three Computer Science lessons per fortnight to build on prior learning and to support GCSE option choices. The following units are covered during the final year of key stage 3.
- Programming with Greenfoot Java
- Advanced Java Programming and Video Game Design
- Computer Networks
- Computer Crime and Cyber Security
- AI and Machine Learning
- App Development
Specification – OCR – Computer Science (J277)
Who this course is suitable for
This course is ideal for students who enjoy solving problems, thinking logically, and exploring how technology shapes the modern world. It is perfect for those who have a passion for understanding how computers work and want to learn how to program.
What you will learn
GCSE Computer Science covers two main components:
- Component 01: Computer Systems
You will learn about the central processing unit (CPU), memory, storage, and how computers communicate through wired and wireless networks. This component also explores network security, system software, and ethical, legal, cultural, and environmental issues related to digital technology. - Component 02: Computational Thinking, Algorithms, and Programming
This component focuses on applying computational thinking to design and debug algorithms, understand programming fundamentals, and explore Boolean logic and programming languages. Students will also learn to produce robust programs using Integrated Development Environments (IDEs).
Practical programming skills are developed through the use of C++, introduced in Year 10. This console-based programming language emphasizes abstraction and decomposition, building on skills developed in earlier years.
How you will learn
Lessons include a mix of theory and hands-on programming tasks. You will work on solving computational problems, designing algorithms, and debugging code. Practical programming is an essential part of the course, allowing you to develop skills in designing, writing, and refining programs. You will also have access to an online textbook and other resources to support your learning.
What you will need to bring
A willingness to dedicate time outside of lessons to practice coding is essential, as regular practice will help you develop your skills and confidence. Outside of the classroom, you will need access to a computer with administrator rights to install the necessary software. A Chromebook is not sufficient for programming tasks.
How you will be assessed
The course is assessed through two written exams, each accounting for 50% of the total GCSE:
- Component 01: Computer Systems (1 hour 30 minutes, 80 marks)
Assesses topics such as systems architecture, memory and storage, networks, security, and the societal impacts of digital technology. This paper includes multiple-choice, short-answer, and extended-response questions.
- Component 02: Computational Thinking, Algorithms, and Programming (1 hour 30 minutes, 80 marks)
Assesses your ability to apply knowledge from Component 01 and includes sections on algorithms, programming techniques, Boolean logic, and IDEs. Questions test your problem-solving and coding skills.
Where next
GCSE Computer Science provides a strong foundation for A-level Computer Science and related courses. It is highly valued in careers such as software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, game design, and artificial intelligence.
Specification – AQA – Computer Science (7517)
Who this course is for
This course is designed for students who are confident in programming and are passionate about solving real-world problems through technology. This course is suitable for students who have achieved grades 9 to 7 in GCSE (or equivalent) Computer Science. Students with lower than an 8 or 9 in GCSE Computer Science may find the course challenging. It is not recommended as a fourth subject or for students who do not plan to pursue Computer Science further.
What you will learn
The course is focused on both programming (60%) and theory (40%). You will learn to develop your own applications, starting with Java. The subject content covers a wide range of essential topics in computing, from programming fundamentals to the consequences of using technology in society.
Key areas of study include:
- Fundamentals of programming, data structures, and algorithms
- Theory of computation and computer systems
- Data representation, databases, and networking
- Big Data and functional programming
- Problem-solving and a systematic approach to computing projects
- Non-exam assessment (practical project) to develop real-world solutions
How you will learn
The course is highly practical, with a strong emphasis on independent coding and project work. Lessons will cover theoretical knowledge alongside hands-on programming exercises. You will be expected to regularly write and adapt code, solve problems, and develop software solutions. Support will be provided, but students must engage in daily coding practice to stay on track.
What you will need to bring
A laptop or access to a computer with a Java editor is essential for completing coursework and projects.
How you will be assessed
Assessment is split into two main exams and one non-exam practical project:
- Paper 1: Programming (40%) – An on-screen exam testing your programming skills and understanding of key concepts from the course.
- Paper 2: Theory (40%) – A written exam testing theoretical knowledge across a range of topics.
- Non-exam Assessment (NEA): Practical Project (20%) – A real-world programming project where you apply your skills to solve a practical problem.
Where next
Successful students often pursue careers in software development, data science, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and more. The course equips you with advanced programming skills and problem-solving techniques, both of which are in high demand in today’s job market.