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Computer Science

Mrs K Walsh BA (Hons), MA
Head of Computer Science
kwalsh@colfes.com

The teaching of Computer Science and IT at Colfe’s aims to endow you with a wide range of skills, which are highly sought after in all types of industry. Computing has deep links with Mathematics, each of the sciences and Design & Technology providing insights into both natural and artificial systems. Studying Computer Science allows you to learn the principles of information and computational thinking, understand how digital systems work and how to put this knowledge to use through a range of programming languages.

Elements of computational thinking, logic and problem solving are taught in Years 7 and 8, both at a theoretical level and more practical with Micro:bits and Makeblock robotics. Coding in a more graphical format is also covered at this point. All pupils in Years 7 and 8 have one lesson of Computer Science per week and those in Year 9 have two per week.

Those who study Computer Science will understand computer systems and develop skills in a range of applications. Pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.

These skills lead to the opportunity to take GCSE Computer Science, which develops greater programming skills as well as delving deeper into every aspect of computers into today’s society.

We have two dedicated computer suites with additional ICT facilities for students to use throughout the school, including the library, Sixth Form common room and creative ICT suites in the Arts block.

Should your child have a particular area of interest that would take them beyond the confines of the syllabus, every assistance will be provided to support such enthusiasm. This extends to the purchase of items of hardware and software necessary to pursue such an investigation.

Pupils will also have the opportunity to a visit The National Museum of Computing at Bletchley Park, as well as attend talks from visiting experts about particular aspects of the subject. The department facilitates co-curricular activities including a Computer Science Club and holiday-time task orientated course with robots.

Colfe’s is an ambassador school for CodeCombat in the UK.

A-Level course details:

Art & Photography

The Art & Photography department at Colfe’s is an exciting, creative space that values imagination and intuitive responses, group and individual work.

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Classics

The Classics Department provides three ways in to this ancient past. Latin is offered throughout the school for Years 7-13, Classical Greek is an option in Year 9 and off-timetable in Year 10, and Classical Civilisation is available at both GCSE and A-level.

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Computer Science

Computer Science and IT at Colfe’s allows you to learn the principles of information and computation thinking, understand how digital systems work and how to put this knowledge to use through a range of programming languages.

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Design & Technology

Design & Technology at Colfe’s prepares pupils to take part in a rapidly changing world; learning to think creatively, become problem solvers and innovators, and design products to fulfil needs and wants not yet realised.

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Drama

Our aim is to help you learn how to express yourself, to explore your unique creativity and ultimately to become a confident performer.

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Economics

In Economics and Business the emphasis in the classroom is on developing analytical abilities, encouraging argument from different standpoints and critical examination of data.

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English

English teaching at Colfe’s is focused on developing pupils’ engagement with literature, introducing them to a range of writers and texts, and encouraging them to become independent, proficient readers.

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Eudaimonia

Eudaimonia at Colfe’s is the teaching of the activity of wellbeing. Broadly based on the virtue ethics of the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle, the word Eudaimonia itself is most commonly translated as ‘flourishing’ by practising virtuous behaviour and engaging with what it means to be human.

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Geography

Our planet is a dynamic, complex and beautiful place. As far as we know it is unique. Studying Geography can help you to understand it, but studying Geography at Colfe’s can help you thrive in it.

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History

The History syllabus at Colfe’s studies some of the most significant events and people in British and World History over the past 2,000 years and aims to inspire a passion for the past.

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Learning Support

Learning Support is based in the heart of the Senior School in a well-equipped classroom with computers, ipads, an interactive whiteboard and an abundance of learning resources and educational games.

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Library

The Library is very much at the centre of the school, and is extremely busy at break and lunch times, and before and after the school day.

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Mathematics

Mathematics is the keystone to the modern technological world in which we live. It enables us to understand our physical environment through sophisticated modelling techniques and is the ultimate language of strategical reasoning.

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Media Studies

Media Studies is about understanding how our world is constructed and how we are encouraged to perceive it. If you understand how the media works, you understand how the world works.

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Modern Languages

Our carefully planned Modern Languages programmes of study will lead you to communicate in modern, real-life situations, using real contemporary language.

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Music

The importance of studying music can’t be overstated; it enables pupils to build confidence through performance, nurture creativity through composition and develop critical enquiry through musical appraisal.

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Physical Education

Through the Physical Education and Sport programme, our pupils experience opportunities to develop skills, which enable them to make informed lifestyle choices in adulthood and a lifelong love of sport and physical activity.

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Religion & Philosophy

Giving pupils an opportunity to engage with the rich history of philosophical and theological thought contributes to their personal growth and ethical development.

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Science

The Science facilities at Colfe's include nine dedicated laboratories with access to notebook computers, so that ICT skills can be used to complement learning.

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How to apply

Find out more about how to apply for Colfe's School. Our main entry points are at ages 3, 4, 11 and 16.