Year 10 Learning
Computer Science is one of the most sought-after qualifications in the industry today. The OCR J277 qualification allows students to understand and apply the fundamental principles and key concepts of computational thinking, which include abstraction, decomposition, logical thinking, algorithms, and data representation. Mastery of these core concepts equips students with the required knowledge to advance to higher levels of study.
The GCSE Computer Science course is tailored for pupils who have a keen interest in exploring deeper into the fundamentals of computing. Students will understand the technology behind the computer systems and networks, as well as exploring the impact that technology has had on a wider society.
At the heart of The Herewoode Academy Computer Science curriculum lies Python Programming, serving as its cornerstone. Here, students engage in an ongoing process of learning how to design, write and debug computer programmes, enabling students to think creatively, critucally and logically.
In Year 10, students will learn the following:
| Topic | Key Content |
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| 1.1 Systems Architecture |
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| 1.2 Memory and storage |
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| 1.3 Computer networks, connections and protocols |
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| 1.4 Network Security |
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| 1.5 Systems Software |
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| 1.6 Ethical, legal, cultural and environmental impacts of digital technology |
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| Practical Python Programming Project |
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The Cambridge Nationals in Creative iMedia will equip learners with a range of creative media skills and provide opportunities to develop, in context, desirable, transferable skills such as research, planning, and review, working with others and communicating creative concepts effectively.
Through the use of these skills, learners will ultimately be creating fit-for-purpose creative media products.
In Year 10, students will learn the following:
| Topic | Key Content |
|---|---|
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R081 LO1 -Understand the purpose and content of pre-production |
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| R081 LO2 – Planning pre-production |
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| R081 LO3 – Produce pre-production documents |
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| R081 LO4 – Be able to review pre-production documents |
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| R082 LO1 Creating digital graphics |
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| R082 LO2 Be able to plan the creation of a digital graphic |
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| R082 LO3 Be able to create a digital graphic |
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| R082 LO4 Be able to review a digital graphic |
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The OCR Cambridge National in Information Technologies equips learners with the essential knowledge, understanding, and practical skills needed to succeed in today’s digital world. This course focuses on how data is collected, managed, and used to create meaningful information and how digital tools are applied to solve real-world problems.
Throughout the qualification, students will develop a broad range of technical and transferable skills, including:
- Project planning and management – learning to design, organise, and deliver digital solutions that meet user needs.
- Data manipulation and analysis – understanding how to collect, interpret, and present data effectively using professional software.
- User interface design – creating functional and accessible digital products that enhance the user experience.
- Cybersecurity awareness – exploring how to keep systems and data safe and the importance of responsible digital practice.
- Problem-solving and critical thinking – applying logical and creative approaches to real-world ICT challenges.
- Effective communication and collaboration – using a range of digital tools to share information, manage tasks, and present outcomes clearly.
By completing this qualification, learners gain a strong foundation for further study or employment in areas such as IT, business, digital media, and computer science. The course provides both a practical understanding of modern technologies and the confidence to use them safely, effectively, and independently in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
Learners in Year 10 will cover the following:
1. Design Tools
- Different design tools and their uses Visualisation diagrams, mood boards, mind maps, storyboards, wireframes, flowcharts
- How they are used in planning IT solutions.
2. Human–Computer Interface (HCI) in Everyday Life
- Factors affecting design: accessibility, layout, ease of use, audience needs, performance.
- Different types of interfaces: command line, menu-driven, graphical, voice-driven, gesture-driven, touchscreen, etc.
3. Data and Testing
- Types of data: text, numeric, alphanumeric, images, sound, video, sensor.
- Data validation methods: presence check, length check, range check, format check, lookup, etc.
- Verification methods: double entry, visual check.
- Types of test data: valid, invalid, erroneous, extreme.