Business, Computing & Media Department
Business, Computing & Media Department Intent Statement
The Business, Computing and Media department aims to equip pupils with a broad and balanced experience of the business and technological world. Pupils will learn a wide range of specialised topics within each subject which spans basic core knowledge, through to more complex technical topics.
All of our department teachers are subject specialists, with specialists in Media, IT, Business and Computer Science. The department partakes in many subject specific CPD opportunities, from STEM through to exam board training. This ensures that all staff are up to date with developments within the curriculum and advances in the real world.
Our KS3 Computing curriculum is structured to submerge pupils into all factors of Business, Computing and Media. Within their 3 years they will study components of all three subject disciplines, which are outlined in our curriculum knowledge maps, to allow them to experience the depth and range of these specialist areas as well as ensuring pupils cover all requirements of the Computing National Curriculum.
Pupils are guided through the topics via a personal learning checklist (PLC), which outlines all the content covered in each term. Each lesson, pupils are led through weekly retrieval activities, both in lesson and as part of their homework, to ensure previously taught content is retained and at the forefront of their minds. This supports new learning and provides links between previous knowledge and newly taught concepts.
In KS3 it is vital pupils have the opportunity to apply the techniques and practical skills they are taught. Pupils are given a variety of tasks to demonstrate their ability in the classroom and through homework.
At KS4 we offer specialist courses in Business, Computer Science and Media. All classes are mixed ability and lessons are structured to be inclusive for all pupils. The lessons are scaffolded to ensure all can access the learning and skills required, and pupils are stretched through challenge tasks built into the lesson.
Business Studies
Within this course pupils will develop their understanding of how the business world operates – current affairs and the day to day life of how a business functions. The course gives pupils the opportunity to explore ideas and scenarios, in a creative way based on the business world.
Computer Science
Pupils will leave Abbey Park with effective computer knowledge and skills including programming, cyber security and networks. Computer Science also allows pupils to explore the topical issues surrounding ethics, environmental and legal implications of computing – all are areas of significance as our lives are digitally tracked in our use of apps and systems.
Media Studies
The media, consciously and subconsciously, influences our daily choices and this course allows pupils to explore the tricks of the media trade while analysing the power of colour, image, text and influence. This course focusses on analysing set products as well as the pupils creating their own product (30% of their final grade).
Pupils in KS3 and KS4 will be assessed periodically through end of topic, or term, tests and milestone assessments. In KS4, these are used alongside end of year exams, mocks and practical class work to assess pupil progress against their target grade.
In both Key stages, after an assessment point, pupils have a review lesson in which they reflect upon their teacher feedback. Pupils then respond to their teacher’s feedback, using MAC (make a change) to demonstrate improved understanding of the lesson content.
KS3 and KS4 Business, Computing and Media Curriculum Maps
Click below in 'Related Documents' to view curriculum maps.