Course Descriptions

Forms 1-3

ICT is delivered as a discrete subject and concentrates on the main applications of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Publisher) but also covers the use of Internet and e-mail.  Pupils are taught skills in ICT lessons that can be applied to other subjects

GCSE ICT

The OCR GCSE Short Course helps prepare candidates for a world increasingly dominated by the use of ICT systems, which influence every aspect of everyday life. Studying ICT will help provide the analytical, communication and technical skills that are needed by active participants in this exciting and dynamic world. The course will provide an essential foundation for any further courses including those specific to the use of computers and new technology.

Two coursework projects make up 60% of the total marks, with the remaining 40% allocated through written examination 

Computer systems, communications technology and information management:

  • Input and output devices
  • Storage devices and media
  • Introductory communications
  • Data types and terminology
  • Information management and effects of IT: legal issues, implications, health and safety

Coursework projects:

  • Project 1A: Communicating Information (Desktop Publishing)
  • Project 1B: Handling Data (Database)

European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL)

ECDL is the internationally recognised qualification which enables people to demonstrate their competence in computer skills across a wide range of applications.  The seven modules that make up the ECDL are:

  • Basic concepts of IT
  • Using the computer and managing files
  • Word processing
  • Spreadsheets
  • Database
  • Presentation
  • Information and Communication

To achieve the ECDL, candidates must pass tests in each of the modules.  At King’s we set automated tests (i.e. done on a computer) and the results come back within a few minutes.  The pass rate for each test is 75% or higher.