ICT at Ashington Academy is an immersive experience, exposing students to fundamentals such as Microsoft Office, which is an essential tool for most jobs in today's workforce and creative computing, such as image manipulation, website and computer game development. This exposure teaches young people how to express their creativity in an informed and responsible way and encourages them to reflect on what they produce and strive for excellence. Finally, computer science concepts are considered, such as how computers work and developing coding solution and using multiple programming languages to real world problems; this develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential in future life.
Throughout the key stages, students will encounter a range of software, completing project-based tasks, providing solutions to given scenarios. Students will also be encouraged to think about e-safety and cultural issues of ICT. These include the impact of technology on daily life, the “digital divide” and globalisation.
As well as following the curriculum, students will be encouraged to read for pleasure, experiencing a diverse range of literature as a platform for exploring new ideas, developing critical thinking skills and learning more about the world around them.
Students enjoy ICT because it is varied, fast-paced and fun. Every student is inspired to believe in their potential and to aim high. Careers within the digital sector are the fastest growing sector today, predictions estimate there will be twice as many jobs than candidates to fill them in the coming years. We have devised our ICT curriculum with this in mind, students acquire a grounding towards knowledge, skills and understanding that a growing number of employers are demanding.