Discovering your passion

Computer Science

Year 10 – 11

Computer Science

Key Stage: KS4

Exam Board: OCR

Qualification Gained: GCSE Computer Science

We aim to foster computational thinking, creativity and enjoyment, enabling pupils to understand and shape the world through problem-solving and digital literacy.

The GCSE Computer Science curriculum at Hammersmith Academy builds on the strong foundations established across Key Stage 3. Students deepen their understanding of computational thinking, software development and the inner workings of computer systems. The course combines practical programming with a secure theoretical grounding, ensuring students can think logically, write efficient code and understand how digital technologies underpin modern life.

Programming is at the heart of the curriculum. Students experiment with a variety of programming activities to strengthen their proficiency, creativity and independence. They revisit earlier concepts through regular written and multiple-choice assessments, reinforcing long-term understanding and preparing them for formal examination.

New theory units expand students’ knowledge of networks, security, data representation, software development and ethical computing — all aligned with the OCR specification. This ensures learners develop the skills, insight and confidence needed for success at GCSE and for progression into further study or careers in the digital and technology sectors.

The course prepares students to:

Design and evaluate algorithms
Write, test and debug code effectively
Understand hardware, networks and system architecture
Analyse and solve complex computational problems
Apply critical and logical thinking to real-world scenarios

Year-by-Year Curriculum

Year 10 – Foundations for Mastery

Students gain strong foundations in programming, algorithms and core computer systems knowledge.

Modules:

Module 1: Algorithms and Programming Constructs
Module 2: Programming Techniques and Networks
Module 3: Computer Systems and Programming Techniques
Module 4: Connected Networks & Data Handling
Module 5: Secure Systems & Software Foundations
Module 6: Computing in Society & Exam Consolidation

This year emphasises practice, problem-solving and confidence-building as students learn to think like programmers and computer scientists.

Year 11 – Exam Preparation & Applied Problem-Solving

Students refine their programming logic and strengthen their theoretical knowledge through targeted revision and exam technique development.

Modules:

Module 1: Computer Systems, Networks & Data Representation — Core Revision (Paper 1)
Module 2: Algorithms, Programming & Logic — Exam Skills (Paper 2)
Module 3: System Security, Networks & Impacts — Exam Technique Booster (Paper 1)
Module 4: Program Design, Logic & Robustness (Paper 2)
Module 5: Paper 2 Polisher — Mixed Practice & Mock Readiness

By the end of Year 11, students are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to excel in both papers of the OCR GCSE Computer Science assessment.

Skills Gained

Students studying GCSE Computer Science develop:

Computational thinking
Logical reasoning and problem-solving
Algorithmic thinking and design
Programming proficiency (Python and related tools)
Understanding of data, networks and system architecture
Cybersecurity awareness
Resilience and attention to detail
Analytical and structured thinking

These skills are highly transferable and valuable across STEM subjects and the wider curriculum.

Partnerships & Enrichment

Students benefit from a range of opportunities that extend learning beyond Students benefit from a range of enrichment and partnership opportunities that enhance their digital literacy and real-world understanding, including:

Bletchley Park
Museum of Computing
DigiGirlz at Microsoft
Coding and robotics clubs
STEM fairs and competitions

Potential Careers

This course provides an excellent foundation for further study, including A-Level Computer Science, BTEC pathways and apprenticeships. Career pathways include:

With computing influencing every sector of modern life, the opportunities are vast and continually expanding.

Attaining Success in The Real World

Computer Science