The principal aims of ICT in Year 7 are to develop the pupils’ awareness of the use of computers in society and to develop their confidence in the use of a wide range of software packages. They extend their knowledge of word processing, presentation skills, spreadsheets, databases and desk top publishing techniques through activities such as making presentations and leaflets about the European Union. They are encouraged to think about where they access information from and how they can use information through a project on pirates.  They use spreadsheets in a “Harry Plotter” project and produce charts illustrating their results. They also create and interrogate databases based on various subjects such as “Superheroes”. Pupils learn about control technology through modelling a working Lego buggy. Pupils are also taught how to surf the internet and be aware of the dangers of using modern technology.

During Year 8 in our first unit of work on Public Information Systems girls develop an information service about weather.  They use a range of ICT and other sources to complete an analysis of their data. This is followed by a web site design project in which the girls design a website, often on a cross curricular topic. They are also taught about the dangers of the Internet and are advised on how to keep them safe online. We also revisit areas covered in Year 7, such as spreadsheets, in order to develop and extend skills taught. A major integrated project is set in the Easter Term. It focuses on a systems approach. It brings together financial modelling, control and monitoring, and marketing.

Year 9 focuses on a Control Technology project based around the area of themeparks. Girls get the opportunity to create mimics of a water ride. They then add sensors and controls to the mimic before constructing flowcharts in order to operate their designs.