Computing Science

Welcome to Computing Science

Computing and information science is vital to everyday life; It shapes the world in which we live and its future. Computing is embedded in the world around us, from systems and devices in our homes and places of work, to how we access education, entertainment, transportation and communication.

Computer scientists theorise, design, develop, and apply the software and hardware for the programmes we use day in day out.

It is estimated that Scotland has up to 12,800 tech job opportunities annually – a 16% increase on previous demand forecasts of 11,000.

- Skills Development Scotland June 2017

Digital skills are fundamental to the life chances of our people and the economic success of our country.

- John Swinney

Computing Science is a highly desirable and sometimes essential qualification for many jobs.

Computing Science Jobs

Essential Highly Desirable 

• IT consultant
• Social media manager
• Software engineer
• Secondary school teacher
• Multimedia programmer
• IT sales professional
• Web developer
• Product manager
• Information systems manager
• Digital copywriter
• Games developer
• IT trainer
• Database administrator

Staff

• Mr L McCaffrey  
• Mr G Jones
• Mr H Gillani

Useful links

• National 5 Computing Science BBC Bitesize
• Scholar

S1 - S3

Senior Phase

Computer Science – National 4/5

The National 4/5 Computing Science Course develops knowledge and understanding of key concepts and processes in computing science; enabling learners to apply skills and knowledge in analysis, design, implementation and evaluation to a range of digital solutions. Learners communicate computing concepts and explain computational behaviour clearly and concisely using appropriate terminology, and develop an understanding of the role and impact of computing science in changing and influencing our environment and society.

The course is designed for learners who are considering further study or a career in computing science and related disciplines. It provides opportunities to enhance skills in planning and organising, working independently and in teams, critical thinking and decision making, research, communication, and self- and peer-evaluation, in a range of contexts.

The National 4 course has two areas of study:

• Software design and development (SDD)
• Information System Design and Development (ISDD)

The National 5 course has four areas of study:

• Software design and development
• Computer systems
• Database design and development
• Web design and development

N4 Course Assessment

Unit assessments – SDD & ISDD Added Value Unit

N5 Course Assessment

Question paper: 110 marks (69%) Assignment: 50 marks (31%)

Higher Computing

The Higher Computing Science Course introduces learners to an advanced range of computational processes and thinking, and develops a rigorous approach to the design and development process across a variety of contemporary contexts. Learners gain an awareness of the importance that computing professionals play in meeting the needs of society today and for the future, in fields which include science, education, business and industry.

The course has four areas of study:

• Software design and development
• Computer systems
• Database design and development
• Web design and development

Higher Course Assessment

Question paper: 110 marks (69%) Assignment: 50 marks (31%)

Cyber Security

The National Progression Award (NPA) in Cyber Security provides foundation knowledge and skills in data security, digital forensics and ethical hacking – providing the skills pipeline into the Cyber Security industry. These awards are designed to raise awareness of Cyber Security and fill the current skills gap in this field. They will encourage learners to improve their cyber hygiene and resilience and enable them to identify security vulnerabilities safely, legally and ethically. They will also help learners to contribute more safely to virtual communities.

The National Units within the award are designed to incorporate the three main areas of cyber security. These are:

1. Data Security
2. Digital Forensics
3. Ethical Hacking

Completion of the 3 units achieves the full NPA at level 5 and SQA points.

All assessment is internal.

Progression into this course

Entrance to this course is at the discretion of the department.  Learners would normally be expected to have attained the skills and knowledge required by the following or by equivalent experience:

Computing Science National 4 or after discussion with department.

Home Study & Extra Curricular

Home Learning

S1 & S2

Coding Express Course

Sign up details are as follows:

1. Create a Code.org account if you haven’t already done so.
2. Sign in to your account.
3. Navigate to https://code.org/join and type in the section code for your year
4. S1 pupils should use: FLQJNC
5. S2 pupils should use: LMVJZX
6. Next press the “Go” button
7. The Express Coding Course will be assigned to you. Your teacher will be able to track your progress.

S2 & S3

All S2 & S3 pupils should be signed up to iDEA. The Duke of York Inspiring Digital Enterprise Award, helps people enhance their chances in the job market with digital and enterprise skills.

Sign up details are as follows:

1. Create an idea.org.uk account.
2. Go to your profile and select Edit Account
3. For S2 pupils enter the organisation code: CALDER2020CS2
4. For S3 pupils enter the organisation code: CALDER20203CS
5. This will allow your teacher to track your progress.

Senior Classes

All senior pupils studying a national course have access to Google Classrooms via Glow.

To sign in to Glow – Click Here

Support Study

Support study is available at lunchtimes, after school, and during the Easter break. Please speak to your teacher for more details.

Clubs

Code Club – Coming soon.