Computing/ICT
All pupils study IT/Computing in Second form for one lesson per week. After this, Computing becomes a choice for those that wish to continue study in this curriculum area.
All years study a mix of theory and practical work, with a focus on programming and problem solving. To that end, pupils enter a range of competitions including the Bebras Computational Thinking Challenge, Oxford University Computing Challenge, Braben Cup, and British Informatics Olympiad. We have had success across these competitions in recent years.
Block Programming introduces pupils to basic programming constructs, including use of variables, making decisions and looping. It also develops their ability to solve problems using a specific set of tools and a logical framework.
In Third Form, pupils begin to learn text-based programming in earnest. Python is the educational programming language of choice for millions across the world. It is also used by hundreds of well-known companies including Google, Intel, IBM, NASA, Pixar, Netflix, Facebook, JP Morgan Chase & Spotify.
At Loretto, pupils study the EDEXCEL Computer Science GCSE. This focuses on Computing Theory and problem solving – covering data, hardware, impact as well as programming errors.
At Loretto, pupils study the A-Level Course which places more of an emphasis on mathematical theory. 40% of the course focuses on solving problems computationally – programming, common algorithms & data structures, providing a great grounding for University courses. 20% of the final grade is awarded for a large-scale project.
Recent projects at Loretto have included:
- Chess Variant with AI
- Scrabble game with AI opponent
- Ultimate tic-tac-toe with AI opponent
- Digital version of Catan
- Comparing different AI approaches to playing tic-tac-toe
A huge range of university courses and careers in technology exist.
Traditional courses follow a similar pattern to the A-Level, while other courses have a more practical and industry-based focus such as Game Design, Cybersecurity and Software Development. Several recent alumni have taken up places at Abertay University.
There are also a growing number of Degree Apprenticeships, where individuals spend up to 80% of their time earning while working for a company and the rest of the time studying for their degree.