Computing, Business and iMedia
RESULTS
Our faculty offers excellent provision from teachers who are passionate about technology. We pride ourselves in offering the highest quality educational provision as well as further education opportunities.
In August 2022, we had a 100% Pass rates in iMedia, Business and Computer Science.
Results were even more impressive at Key Stage 5. A Level Computer Science students secured 85% A-A* grades, making us the highest performing department in the South West and amongst the top subjects at Camborne VI Form. In both BTEC Business and IT, results in 2022 were 100% Distinction – Distinction *.
· BTEC Business has maintained an ALPS 2 grade every year since 2018
· BTEC IT Business has maintained an ALPS 2 grade every year since 2018
· A Level Computer Science is currently ranked as an ALPS 2
An Alps grade 2 puts our performance between the 90th-99th percentile of all A Level and BTEC providers, making our official ranking Outstanding. We endeavour to support young people in accomplishing the highest standards.
WHY TAKE COMPUTING?
We live in an ever changing world; a week doesn’t go by without the launch of a new smartphone, games console or app. Computer Science is the transferable skill that can empower you to make a difference in all aspects of life.
“Everybody should learn how to program a computer… because it teaches you how to think.” Steve Jobs
Computer Science is not just about being able to write code. Concepts like decomposition, abstraction and algorithm design can help with revision, or planning a project, even building a house. There is a huge shortage in Computing specialists, this skillset is in demand and
Our Computing department inspires creativity at every turn. Through practical studies in Computational Thinking, Algorithm Design and Programming Constructs, all students are encouraged to be ambitious and to actively engage in the processes of design to develop as effective and independent learners.
KEY STAGE 3
Camborne Science and International Academy recognises the importance of computing in education, employment and industry. Because of this, our Key Stage 3 programme is compulsory for all Year 7, 8 and 9 students and plays a vital part in the curriculum.
“Whether you want to uncover the secrets of the universe, or you want to pursue a career in the 21st century, basic computer programming is an essential skill to learn.” Stephen Hawking
Our Key Stage 3 Curriculum has been redeveloped for 2022/23, designed to stretch all students to their full potential. Lessons are topic based, each lasting a school semester. Our topics include Games Development and Programming, Digital Citizenship and Entrepreneurship. We provide challenge; students learn the logic behind the software they use on a daily basis and will be empowered to decompose problems and construct their own algorithms.
Each topic will allow students to specialise in or “Master” a particular area of interest. We encourage students to be in control of their own learning, there are planned opportunities to extend strands to top GCSE level at Key Stage 3.
KEY STAGE 4
We have a broad subject offering at Key Stage 4. These options may complement each other with many students opting for more than one at the end of Year 8.
Students wishing to follow the technical route may choose GCSE Computer Science.
“All of my friends who have younger siblings who are going to college or school – my number one piece of advice is: You should learn how to program.” Mark Zuckerberg
Business Studies is an exciting and innovative option that gives students an insight into employment and industry sectors. The qualification should prepare students to make informed decisions about further learning opportunities and career choices. This course provides knowledge in a range of areas such as, marketing, personal and business finance, human resources and production. The course is made up from 60% controlled assessment.
Alternatively, we also offer a Level 2 Certificate in Creative iMedia. This is a highly subscribed option aimed across the whole range of learning styles and abilities. This course is media sector-focused, including film, television, web development, gaming and animation, and has IT at its heart. This course provides knowledge in a number of key areas in this field from pre-production skills to digital animation. iMedia allows a motivating, hands-on approach to both teaching and learning.
THE VI FORM ACADEMY
Our VI Form meets the needs of all students and provides qualifications that are demanded by both industry and higher education. CSIA VI Form offers a transition from all Key Stage 4 Subjects.
A Level Computer Science – This modern qualification gives an insight into a range of computing systems, including an understanding of the principles of programming and the solving of problems. The course will prepare students for university courses in computing /computer science, or for work in the ICT industry.
“Teaching young people to code early on can help build skills and confidence and energize the classroom with learning-by-doing opportunities. I learned how to fly a hot air balloon when I was 30,000 feet up and my life was in the balance: you can learn skills at any age but why wait when we can teach everyone to code now!” Richard Branson
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Information Technology – This qualification is designed for learners who are interested in an introduction to the study of creating IT systems to manage and share information, alongside other fields of study, with a view to progressing to a wide range of higher education courses, not necessarily in IT.
The course is regarded as a vocational subject as you are awarded a Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction*. These are still worth the same amount of UCAS points as an A level. Universities look fondly on candidates who gain a “well-rounded” education at VI Form by achieving their potential in both vocational and academic subjects collectively. The qualification is divided into four units of work across the two year course; two of which are externally assessed.
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Business Studies – This course is designed for learners who are interested in Business on a personal and international level. Our units of work cover, Marketing, Business and Personal Finance, Human Resources as well as Business Structure.
The qualification is divided into four units of work across the two year course; some of which are externally examined and controlled assessment which is both internally and externally assessed. This means that students benefit from a range of different assessment opportunities. Students who thrive in an environment where they can be provided with more than one opportunity to succeed in their assessments will find this course a good choice. The final grade achieved will be either a Pass, Merit or Distinction, which are still worth the same UCAS points as a traditional A-level.
NEXUS
Our Computing provision goes far beyond the classroom. We offer a wide range of engaging enrichment opportunities at our Nexus site. Our activities for 2022/23 include; Lego Mindstorm Robotics, BBC Micro:Bit Programming & UNITY Games Design.
These enrichment activities are open to all students and are a collaborative offering from CSIA staff as well as industry experts including Professor Colton from Falmouth University.
CAREERS
Our courses will prepare students for university courses in computing /computer science, or for work in the ICT industry. Below are just a few of the career opportunities that exist to candidates that complete the courses at work.
Business – This qualification is designed to give students a range of different business knowledge as well as many transferable skills. After completing the course students will have the necessary knowledge to enter into an apprenticeship, into employment or Higher Education. With a Business qualification typical employment areas are Finance, Human Resources, Marketing and even starting up your own Business.
Computer Science –The course will prepare you for university courses in computing /computer science, or for work in the ICT industry.
ICT – This qualification is designed to give you a range of specialist knowledge and transferable skills in the context of applied IT, providing you with the opportunity to enter an apprenticeship, move directly into employment, or progress to a related Higher Education (HE) course. Typical job roles within this pathway include; Junior Web Application Developer, Junior Application Developer or Junior Software Analyst.
STAFF
Our IT and Computing teachers are passionate about technology and will support you in accomplishing the highest standards.
Mr Tom Smith – BSc. Computing (Hons.); (PDip)
Director of Faculty for Computing, Business & Economics
Online Safety Coordinator
Mr J Reed – BSc. (Hons.)
Lead Practitioner – Vocational Studies
Mrs S Deacon – BA (Hons.) Business Studies
Head of Business Studies
Mr M Bartaby – BA (Hons.)
Lead Practitioner in Computer Science
Mr E Attwell – BSc. (Hons.)
Lead Practitioner – Teaching and Learning
Mr M Rogers – MSc. (Hons.)
Teacher of Computing
Mr F Hawkey – BSc. (Hons.)
Teacher of Business & Computing
Head of House (Aztec)
Mr M Fenlon
Vice Principal – Teacher of Business
