Home » Curriculum » Departments » Computing

Facebook

21 hours ago

Stromness Academy

No after school Netball today!We will be back to normal next week.Apologies for any inconvenience caused.

See MoreSee Less

View on Facebook

Computing

Staff


Department

We are a small department and offer a range of courses from S1 to Advanced Higher.
We have one main computing classroom fully equipped with computers which can accommodate 20 pupils.
We also have a second computing classroom available for use by the other departments.


Courses

BGE

S1 and S2

In S1 and S2 every pupil studies Computing one period per week. During these two years we develop our digital literacy and computational thinking skills. The topics covered include:

  • File management – Learn how to create, save and organise files, manage passwords, and stay safe online.
  • Graphics and Media – Use multiple software to create images, presentations and more
  • Programming – Develop your problem solving skills and learn to create games using Scratch and Microbits
  • Computer components – Discover what is inside a computer and how it works
  • Website creation – Create your own website

S3

In S3, pupils are offered the possibility to study computing 2 periods per week. During this year we continue to develop our knowledge of the impact of Information Technology in daily life. We also focus on reinforcing our problem solving and practical skills. The topics covered include:

  • Webdesign
  • Database Design and Development
  • Textual programming using SmallBasic and Python, using Raspberry Pis
  • Computer systems and Networking

Computing BGE 2022-23

Senior Phase (S4-6)

Updates in progress

Computing N4 N5

Computing H

Computing AH

Senior Phase S4-S6 (SQA)

National 4 Computing Science

At National 4 level, pupils study Computing 5 periods per week. In this course we aim to develop and secure the knowledge acquired in S3. To achieve a pass, pupils will have to pass a practical assessment for 2 course units and one added value unit.

National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher Computing Science

From National 5 to Advanced Higher level, pupils study Computing 5 periods per week. These courses are built upon a mix of theoretical concepts and practical skills:

  • Software Design and Development – Pupils will develop their programming and problem solving skills by developing, implementing and testing programs and explaining how these work.
  • Computer Systems – Pupils will develop an understanding of how data and instructions are stored in binary form and of the basic architecture of a computer. Pupils will also study the impact of computer systems on the society, notably from an environmental point of view.
  • Database Design and Development – Pupils will develop knowledge, understanding and problem-solving skills in database design and development, through a range of practical and investigative tasks.
  • Web Design and Development – Pupils will analyse, design, implement, test and evaluate practical solutions to web-based problems using a range of development tools and languages such as HTML, CSS and Javascript.

To achieve a pass, pupils will have to pass the SQA practical coursework and a course exam.


Extra-curricular

  • Supported study sessions are offered after school to the senior pupils.
  • A lunchtime club is organised once a week for pupils interested in programming and robotics.

Links

Individual pupils can access their work and resources through Microsoft teams using their Glow account.

In BGE, pupils develop their programming skills using Scratch. An online version of Scratch is available for home use.

In S3 and during their senior year pupils learn how to create websites, a good reference guide can be found here: W3Schools Online Web Tutorials.

Past papers are available on the SQA website (SQA official website) for senior pupils eager to revise.

Last Updated on 24th January 2024 by F Sinclair

Mental Health Resources & Support

Disclaimer

Stromness Academy seeks to ensure that the information published on its website is up-to-date and accurate. However, the information on the website does not constitute legal or professional advice and Stromness Academy cannot accept any liability for actions or consequences arising from its use. Stromness Academy cannot be held responsible for the contents of any other website accessed through a link on our site. Stromness Academy provides these links as a convenience and inclusion of a link does not imply endorsement by Stromness Academy of an external site.