Computing
All students have access to three computer rooms, with up-to-date PCs connected to the school’s LAN (local area network). In addition, there is a bank of laptop computers which have wireless connections to the school’s network and can be used anywhere on the school site, and students also have access to a bank of iPads. Each department has its own computers running specialist software. White boards and projectors can be found in laboratories and classrooms throughout the school. We update our computer systems each year so that our students have high quality technology at their fingertips.
We use Office365 which allows our students to access their work across a range of devices both in and outside school. Every student is allocated file space on the network servers in which to store her schoolwork. The network also provides internet access with external email and the internet. All users are expected to act responsibly; every student signs an Acceptable User Policy and staff provide tutorials for students and parents on safe use of the internet.
Students study a wide and varied curriculum from Year 7 through to Year 9. Younger students have the opportunity to study Animation, The Inside of a Computer, Spreadsheet Manipulation and they use Tynker, an Online Learning System, to help them understand the basics of Coding and Programming.
We then progress to Cyber Security, Ciphers, Code Breaking, Binary and Computer Viruses before the older students start to focus on The History of Gaming, Cyber Security, Algorithms and Careers in Technology. We have a range of visiting speakers coming in to talk with our girls and open their minds to a range of vocations available to them, and the progressions that women are making in the Tech Industry. Positive role models are incredibly important to us and we focus on inspirational figures.
Whilst all this is happening, all students have a strong focus on Digital Literacy. Students have lessons regarding many aspects of Online Safety, as well as their Online Reputation, Plagiarism, Copyright, Privacy Settings and moral / ethical uses of the Internet.
Computer Science at GCSE is an exciting, hands-on subject where students not only learn but also apply skills to real-world challenges. Whether students are intrigued by technology, enjoy problem-solving, or want to explore your creativity, this subject offers it all.
OCR has created this forward-thinking, relevant qualification in collaboration with industry giants like Microsoft, Google, and Cisco, as well as educational organisations like Computing at School (CAS), teachers, and academic experts. This ensures the course is not only engaging but also prepares students for the rapidly changing world of technology.
Computer Science at A-level is a dynamic and practical subject, allowing students to apply theoretical principles to real-world systems. It combines creativity and innovation, offering a unique way to understand the modern world through a digital lens.
Computer Science strongly complements subjects like Mathematics and Physics. The logical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills developed in Maths directly support the algorithms and data manipulation in Computer Science. Meanwhile, the understanding of physical systems in Physics aids in grasping the hardware and mechanics behind computing. The intersection of these subjects gives students a holistic view of how digital systems can be applied to solve both theoretical and practical challenges.
Meet Mr Friendship, Head of Computer Science (STILL NEEDS PHOTO)
With a background designing control systems for banks and the rich and famous, Mr Friendship transitioned into teaching almost by accident – a favour that turned into a passion. He now leads Computer Science at GCSE and A-level, specialising in AI integration, heuristic problem-solving, and binary algorithms such as A*. He also holds a Chemistry degree and an MBA, alongside numerous developer qualifications in Python, C++, and HTML.
“I find the greatest reward is witnessing that moment of understanding – when a student’s face lights up with clarity. Outside the classroom, I enjoy fly fishing on large lakes and all things outdoors. So impressed was I by The Maynard’s ethos and community that I moved my daughter, Darcey, here within just three weeks of joining.”
Where next?
