Computer Science and ICT
Computer Science is a practical subject where students can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real-world systems.
It encourages computational thinking, helping students to develop the skills to solve problems and design systems.
Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9 | core subject
In the first three years, the subject is known as Digital Learning. This is a bespoke curriculum which has been developed at John Lyon to provide pupils with up to date and forward-looking digital skills. These will be vital for future study and careers in any number of areas. Topics of study include: Online Safety, block-based and text-based coding with Python, robotics and Micro:Bit use, web design, game design and object-oriented programming, video and graphic design.
Year 10 and 11, GCSE | option subject
From Year 10, the subject is known as Computer Science.
GCSE Computer Science will provide a strong foundation for a candidate to develop computing solutions for everyday problems. Pupils who opt for Computer Science GCSE will develop their understanding of current and emerging technologies. During the course pupils learn how to design, write and evaluate computer programs in different coding languages, both as an individual and working collaboratively. Pupils also learn to appreciate an efficient design to ensure their programs make effective use of their processing capacity. Additionally, pupils learn about the wider issues surrounding technology in society and how to assess the impact of their programs on their users and wider audiences.
GCSE REQUIREMENTS
– Entry to the Computer Science GCSE course is limited and subject to certain criteria. A benchmarking test will be required to confirm entry onto this course, based on a set of self-study materials provided.
EXAMINATION BOARD
– OCR GCSE J277 Computer Science
Sixth Form, A-Level | option subject
Alongside a rigorous study of computing systems, algorithms and programming, students will undertake a programming project to demonstrate the ability to analyse a realistic problem before designing, developing and evaluating their own solution. Students may use a range of languages such as Python, JavaScript or C. These skills are becoming increasingly essential in our digital world.
A-LEVEL REQUIREMENTS
– Grade 7 at (I)GCSE Computer Science. If Computer Science has not previously been studied, a grade 7 in Mathematics (I)GCSE is required. The Head of Computer Science will also advise regarding a student’s suitability onto the course.
EXAMINATION BOARD
– OCR A-Level H446A Computer Science
John Lyon Success
– 83% of A-Level students were awarded an A* grade.
– 39% of GCSE pupils achieved 9-7 grades.
– Alex Richardson (OL2019) left John Lyon to read Computing at Imperial College London.
Outside the Classroom
Many activities available in John Lyon’s list of extra-curricular activities have strong elements of computing and programming, including Architecture, Computer Gaming, GIS Disaster Mapping, VEX Robotics and Virtual Reality.
Beyond School
Programming is the clear and concise expression of logical thought and is attractive to employers in many fields. It develops critical thinking, analysis and problem solving skills. It is an excellent starting point for a career in engineering, sciences, digital arts/games and computing. A-Level Computer Science will provide excellent preparation for students wanting to go on to study Computer Science at a higher level and will also provide a good grounding for other subject areas that require computational thinking and analytical skills, e.g. Engineering, sciences and digital arts/games.
We provide a wide range of sporting activities and opportunities for all pupils.
At our Prep School we concur with educational theorists who emphasise the importance of the creative mind and ‘emotional intelligence’ and ‘wellbeing’ – the need to develop the whole personality and our pupil’s imaginations especially. Drama has the power to liberate the mind.
We encourage our pupils to become healthy, independent and responsible members of society. 
At our Prep School, Computing covers the use of electronic technology in all its forms, including computers and other communication devices.
• What is religion?
Art is an integral part of our Prep School’s curriculum, providing our pupils with a unique means of expressing their ideas by allowing them to explore new thoughts and give life to their creative minds.
History is taught throughout the School and pupils are encouraged to find out about events and peoples.
Planet Earth is our only home. It is an mind-blowing, diverse and constantly changing place of awesome beauty and power. 
French is the language of our nearest neighbours, probably the easiest foreign language for English speakers to learn and, after English, one of the most widely-learned languages worldwide.
The core of every science lesson at our Prep School is about developing every pupil’s curiosity in the world around them. 
Mathematics is a key subject for children of all ages at our Prep School.
English is taught using lively and creative methods through a variety of texts and resources incorporating ICT from Pre-Prep onwards.