Our department vision for Business and Computing is to provide opportunities both inside and outside of the classroom for our students to become forward-thinking, ambitious, and capable learners who are ready to learn throughout their lives. We aim to develop enterprising, creative contributors who are ready to play a full part in life and work, as well as ethical, well-informed citizens of Wales and the world. Through our curriculum and extra-curricular activities, we aim to empower our students to become healthy, confident individuals who are ready to lead fulfilling lives as valued members of society.
We strive to create an environment where students can reach their full potential and become successful in their future endeavours. We also commit to driving progression in learners using formative assessment and creating a culture of high expectations to ensure progress for all learners. We provide regular opportunities for students to reflect on their learning and set goals for improvement, using formative assessment to guide their progress and ensure they are on track to achieve their best. We also promote high expectations for all learners, encouraging them to aim for the highest standards and supporting them to achieve their goals.
As part of the Science and Technology AOLE, we place a strong emphasis on the role of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in the curriculum. ICT plays a crucial role in our everyday lives and is an essential skill for students to develop in order to thrive in the modern world.
Our department is led by Mr. P Woodhouse, the Head of Business and Computing, who also has additional responsibility for Digital Competency. We also have a dedicated team of teachers who are highly skilled and experienced in their fields. Mr. C Heard teaches all year groups ICT, Mrs. C Howatson teaches year 7-9, year 10, 13 iMedia and Digital Media, Mr. A Jones teaches year 7-9 ICT and Cymru a fi and Mr. K Hughes is the ICT Manager.
We offer a wide range of curriculum options for students of all ages.
In Year 7, students study Computing where they learn the basics of programming and computer science.
In Year 8 and 9, students study ICT where they learn the basics of computer systems, digital literacy, and website design. We have developed a creative curriculum to ensure that the skills developed are relevant to the local and surrounding areas.
GCSE Business Studies: This course provides students with a basic understanding of business concepts and how organisations operate. Students will study topics such as marketing, finance, human resources, and operations management. They will also learn about the economic and legal environment in which businesses operate. By studying this course, students will develop critical-thinking, decision-making, problem-solving and communication skills. They will also learn how to analyse data and make informed decisions. Additionally, they will develop teamwork and project management skills as they work on group projects and presentations.
Creative iMedia: This course provides students with an understanding of the digital media industry and how to create digital products such as websites, animations, and games. Students will learn about digital media production techniques, pre-production planning, and design principles. They will also develop technical skills in software such as Adobe Photoshop and Premiere Pro. By studying this course, students will develop creativity, problem-solving and communication skills as they work on various digital media projects, as well as an understanding of the social and ethical issues surrounding the use of digital media.
ICT: The Level 2 vocational award in ICT is a qualification designed to give learners a broad understanding of the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) industry. The course covers a range of topics including:
Through studying this course, learners will develop a range of key skills including:
These skills will be developed through a variety of teaching and learning methods, including practical tasks, group work, and independent research. The course will also provide learners with a solid foundation for further study in ICT or related fields, or for pursuing a career in the technology industry.
Applied Business: This course provides students with a practical understanding of how businesses operate and how to apply business concepts to real-world scenarios. Students will study topics such as marketing, finance, human resources, and operations management. They will also learn about entrepreneurship, business planning, and how to create and manage a small business. Students will develop skills in entrepreneurship, business planning, financial management, marketing, and communication. They will also learn how to analyse data, make decisions, and solve problems. Additionally, they will develop teamwork and project management skills as they work on group projects and create their own business plans.
Applied IT: This course provides students with hands-on experience in the field of information technology. Students will learn about topics such as computer hardware and software, programming, and data management. They will also develop skills in web design, digital graphics, and computer networks. Students will develop technical skills in computer hardware and software, programming, and data management. They will also gain experience in web design, digital graphics, and computer networks. Additionally, students will develop problem-solving, critical thinking and creativity skills as they work on various IT projects.
Business Studies: This course provides students with an overview of business concepts and how organisations operate. Students will study topics such as marketing, finance, human resources, and operations management. They will also learn about the economic and legal environment in which businesses operate, and develop critical-thinking and decision-making skills. Students will develop critical-thinking, decision-making and problem-solving skills. They will also gain an understanding of how businesses operate, and learn how to analyse data and make informed decisions. Additionally, they will develop communication and teamwork skills as they work on group projects and presentations.
Digital Media: This course provides students with an understanding of the digital media industry and how to create digital products such as digital media profiles, visual-audio products such as promotional videos, and print-based products such as billboards. Students will learn about digital media production techniques, pre-production planning, and design principles. They will also develop an understanding of the social and ethical issues surrounding the use of digital media, and gain technical skills in software such as Adobe Photoshop, Premiere Pro, and Adobe Illustrator. Additionally, students will develop creativity, problem-solving, and communication skills as they work on various digital media projects, as well as an understanding of the social and ethical issues surrounding the use of digital media. Students will get the opportunity to use our industry-standard photography equipment to produce digital media content.
Business Studies, Digital Technology and Digital Media are all diverse fields offering a wide range of career and educational opportunities.
Business Studies: Graduates with a Business Studies degree can pursue careers in fields such as finance, marketing, human resources, and management. There are many career opportunities available in the business sector and business graduates can work in a variety of different roles such as accountancy, banking, marketing, and management consulting. Many students who study Business Studies go on to study business-related degrees at university and then go on to work for companies such as Barclays, HSBC, and Shell.
Digital Technology: Graduates with a degree in Digital Technology can pursue careers in fields such as software development, computer systems analysis, web design, and IT consulting. There are many career opportunities available in the technology sector and graduates can work in a variety of different roles such as: software developer, network administrator and web developer.
Digital Media: Graduates with a degree in Digital Media can pursue careers in fields such as web design, graphic design, video production, and digital marketing. There are many career opportunities available in the digital media sector and graduates can work in a variety of different roles such as: web designer, graphic designer, video editor, and digital marketer.
Additionally, the school's Business and Computing department holds regular presentations from business professionals and has a Women into Finance Scholarship for A/A* Mathematicians in A-level. Through these opportunities, students can learn about different career paths and gain valuable insight into the industry. Additionally, many of our students have gone on to set up their own businesses or start their own ventures.
WJEC: www.wjec.co.uk - This website provides information on the WJEC exam board and their qualifications, including Business Studies, Digital Media and Digital Technology. It also offers resources such as past papers and mark schemes for learners to use in their studies.
Two Teachers: www.twoteachers.co.uk - This website offers a wide range of resources for Business Studies, including revision materials, lesson plans, and worksheets. It also has a section specifically for Digital Media and Digital Technology.
Taking the Biz: www.youtube.com/takingthebiz - This YouTube channel is run by two business teachers and provides a wide range of resources for Business Studies, including revision videos, exam tips, and case studies.
Business Wales: www.businesswales.gov.wales/ - This website provides information and support for businesses in Wales, including guidance on starting and growing a business, funding and finance, and access to mentoring and networking opportunities.
Welsh Government: www.gov.wales/topics/business-and-economy - This website provides information and resources on business and economy in Wales, including updates on policies and initiatives, support for businesses, and information on funding and grants.
Tech Nation: www.technation.io - This website provide information and resources for digital technology businesses and entrepreneurs, including networking opportunities, events, and resources to help businesses grow and scale.
Creative Skillset: www.creativeskillset.org - This website provides information and resources for the creative industries, including Digital Media, including information on skills development, training, and funding opportunities.
The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA): www.cimaglobal.com - This website provides information and resources for Management Accountants and offers courses and qualifications in the field of business studies.
The Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM): www.cim.co.uk - This website provides information and resources for marketers and offers courses and qualifications
