Computer Science is big business; indeed the animation and gaming industry is one of the mainstays of the UK economy. Its study is also a valuable way to improve logical thinking and rigorous problem-solving.

"In the new economy, computer science isn't an optional skill. It's a basic skill, right along with the three Rs." - Barack Obama

At Wellington School we believe that all pupils should understand how computers work and be able to write their own programs, as well as using existing packages to their best.

All pupils are taught Computer Science as a discrete subject up to the end of the Year 9. Topics covered include animation, spreadsheet simulations, game programming, problem solving through coding, mobile integration, web coding, hardware, binary, AI, and robotics. Whilst there is a heavy slant towards algorithmic thinking and programming, there are also lessons on things like netiquette, MS Office, keyboard skills, and graphic design. The majority of assessment is coursework-based, though there are online and written tests at various points.

The AQA Computer Science course is followed at GCSE and at A-level and fits within the normal options blocks. Topics covered include hardware, binary and hexadecimal, logic, networking, and cybersecurity, as well as the major area of planning, development and testing of programs.

The main languages used across the year groups are Scratch, HTML, CSS, Javascript and Python. Some pupils might also learn PHP or other languages for specific projects.
 

Wellington is a Gold CyberFirst School. 

Wellington has been accredited by the National Centre for Computing Education with a Computing Quality Mark which recognises “schools that are able to show exemplary practice in their computing curriculum and procedures”.
 

Computer Science success in external competitions:

In 2023-24
Perse Coding Team Challenge
2 Round 1 Distinction
9 Round 1 Merit

Bebras International Computational Thinking Challenge
23 pupils achieved a Gold (top 10% in the country)
58 pupils achieved a Distinction
78 pupils achieved a Merit

Inspiring Digital Enterprise Award
2 Bronze Awards