Computer Science at Aston Academy

Explore the Computer Science curriculum including programming, web development, micro:bit systems, algorithms, flowcharts, cyber security, data representation, and advanced digital technologies used across modern computing industries.

What You Learn in Computer Science

Students study Python, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, micro:bit physical computing, flowcharts, algorithms, data charts, cyber security, computer systems, logic gates, and computational thinking as part of the national curriculum.

Key skills include computational thinking, decomposition, abstraction, pattern recognition, debugging, evaluation, and algorithm design.

6+

Core curriculum areas studied each year.

100%

Practical learning and project work.

20+

Interactive coding activities and assessments.

∞

Creative opportunities in digital technology.

Why Computer Science?

Computer Science develops logical thinking, creativity, resilience, problem-solving skills, and technical understanding that students can apply across many industries.

Future Careers

Students interested in Computer Science may progress into careers such as software engineer, game developer,cyber security analyst, web designer, data scientist, systems architect, or network engineer.

Learning Journey

Year 7

Introduction to algorithms, Scratch programming, Python basics, internet safety, and digital literacy.

Year 8

Python programming, flowcharts, binary, logic systems.

Year 9

Advanced programming concepts, cyber security, databases, micro:bit systems, and software development projects.

Year 10

GCSE Computer Science includes different programming techniques, computer software/hardware, networks, cyber security, data representation, and algorithm design.

Year 11

Advanced GCSE Computer Science topics, exam preparation, practical programming projects, and problem-solving using computational thinking.

“Computer Science is no more about computers than astronomy is about telescopes.”

— Edsger Dijkstra

Full Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is designed to give students practical experience, problem-solving skills, and theoretical understanding of how computer systems operate.

Programming

Python & JavaScript

Web Development

HTML & CSS

Micro:bit

Physical computing

Data

Binary & charts

Flowcharts

Algorithms & logic

Systems

CPU & memory

Cyber Security

Online safety & protection

Artificial Intelligence

Machine learning basics

Students learn Python and JavaScript for problem solving, logic, and software development using variables, loops, functions, and arrays.
Students build responsive websites using HTML and CSS with modern design principles.
Micro:bit projects include sensors, LEDs, and embedded programming.
Students study binary, hexadecimal, data storage, compression, and visualisation using charts and graphs.
Flowcharts help students design algorithms before coding solutions, improving planning and debugging processes.
Students explore hardware including CPU architecture, memory systems, storage devices, and networking.
Students learn password security, phishing prevention, encryption basics, malware protection, and safe online behaviour.
Students explore machine learning concepts, artificial intelligence systems and ethical computing technologies.

Curriculum Skills Table

Topic Skills Developed Software Used
Programming Logic, problem solving, debugging Python, JavaScript
Web Design Creativity, layout design, UX HTML, CSS
Data Representation Binary conversion, analysis Spreadsheets
Cyber Security Digital safety, awareness N/A
Systems Hardware understanding N/A

Interactive Coding Tool

Experiment with HTML directly in the browser. Students can edit code and instantly preview the result below.

Programming Challenges

  • Create a calculator
  • Build a quiz game
  • Design a responsive website
  • Develop a password generator

Software & Languages

  • Python
  • JavaScript
  • HTML
  • C++
  • CSS
  • VS Code
Students are encouraged to experiment, test ideas, debug problems, and improve their projects using iterative design.

Student Projects

Click a project to view it in full. Projects demonstrate coding, design, problem-solving, and creativity.

Interactive Website Portfolio

Project Showcase

Website Development

Students create fully interactive websites using responsive layouts, animations, modern UI design, and accessibility principles.

Software Engineering

Students design algorithms, build applications, test software, and evaluate user experience.