Computer Science
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Head of Department: Mr C Davison
"Everybody should learn how to program a computer because it teaches you how to think" - Steve Jobs
We are proud to share the ongoing development of Computer Science at Herne Bay High School. Now in its second year, our Key Stage 3 curriculum includes computing for both Year 7 and Year 8 students, providing a strong foundation in digital literacy, programming, and computational thinking.
We’re excited to continue this momentum, with plans to introduce Computer Science to Year 9 next academic year—completing our full Key Stage 3 provision.
In addition, we are pleased to offer A Level Computer Science as part of our Post-16 curriculum. This advanced course allows students to explore programming paradigms, complex data structures, and efficient algorithms, preparing them for further study and careers in the digital and tech industries.
Teaching Staff
- Mr C Davison (Subject Lead)
- Mrs J Eyres
- Mr C Phillips
- Mrs B Soyode
Computing Clubs and Trips
Herne Bay High School provides numerous enrichment opportunities throughout the year, including:
- National Coding Week
- Weekly Code Club
- Lunchtime LEGO Robotics Club
- Trip to Bletchley Park
- Safer Internet Day
- Cyber Discovery & Other National Challenges
- Digital Leaders Programme
- Tech & Innovation Masterclass
- Inter-House Coding Competitions
These activities inspire students to pursue careers in Computer Science and deepen their understanding and engagement with the subject.
What do our children study?
Key Stage 3 Computer Science Curriculum
All pupils in KS3 receive a dedicated Computer Science lesson each week in order to develop their computational thinking, digital literacy, and understanding of the modern digital world. The curriculum is designed not only to build fundamental programming skills but also to support pupils’ intellectual and practical development in an increasingly digital society. These lessons allow students to explore key concepts in computer science through hands-on activities and structured learning, gradually building up the challenge in preparation for more advanced study at GCSE and beyond.
The aims of the KS3 Computer Science curriculum are for pupils to:
- Understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms, and data representation
- Analyse problems in computational terms and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs to solve such problems
- Evaluate and apply information technology, including new or unfamiliar technologies, analytically to solve problems
- Become responsible, competent, confident, and creative users of information and communication technology
- Develop resilience and a mindset for troubleshooting, debugging, and iterating digital solutions
To support learning and monitor progress, pupils engage with a range of online platforms such as Python-based coding environments, block-based programming tools (e.g. Scratch), and topic quizzes.
AQA GCSE Computer Science
Students in Years 10 and 11 follow the AQA GCSE Computer Science specification. This course is designed to develop a deep understanding of computational thinking, programming, and problem-solving, alongside the theoretical knowledge underpinning computer systems and networks.
Assessment is by two exam papers, each worth 50% of the overall grade:
- Paper 1: Computational thinking and programming skills
Covers algorithms, programming fundamentals, producing robust programs, computational logic, and translators and facilities of languages.
This paper includes practical programming elements. - Paper 2: Computing concepts
Focuses on data representation, computer systems, networks, cyber security, ethical and legal concerns, and software development.
Click here for exam board information on AQA | Computer Science | GCSE | GCSE Computer Science
AQA A-Level Computer Science
Students in Sixth Form follow the AQA A-Level Computer Science specification. This course promotes a rigorous approach to the fundamentals of computer science, including how computers work, how data is processed, and how software is developed.
The course is assessed as follows:
- Paper 1: On-screen exam (40%)
Focuses on problem-solving, programming, and algorithms. Students complete coding-based tasks in a controlled environment. - Paper 2: Written exam (40%)
Covers the theoretical side of computer science including data structures, systems architecture, databases, networks, and the social, moral, and legal aspects of computing. - Non-exam assessment: Programming project (20%)
Students create a substantial piece of software solving a real-world problem, which is documented and evaluated as part of their coursework.
Click here for exam board information on AQA | Computer Science | A-level | A-level Computer Science