Head of Computing and ICT

Computing is taught as a subject to all pupils in our Lower School (years 7 to 9) and GCSE Computer Science is also offered as an optional GCSE subject in Middle School (years 10 and 11). A Level Computer Science has recently been introduced as an A level course (OCR specification) and students in our Sixth Form can alternatively choose to study the Cambridge Technical Level 3 ICT course.

Computing Skills are essential life skills and we encourage all pupils to develop their knowledge and expertise in using the latest tools and software.  Given the changing nature of this area, the department frequently looks for opportunities to embrace new technologies and incorporate them into the curriculum.

The Lower School Computing curriculum is based upon four key themes which are repeated as a pupil progresses from year to year.  These themes are Digital Safety, Functional Skills, Computer Science Skills and a Creative Computing and ICT Project.  Digital Safety covers the need to be vigilant when using any form of IT from social media, to gaming and the important use of passwords.  Functional Skills involves working with key Microsoft applications such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint.  Computer Science Skills looks at computer programming and a range of languages are used including Scratch and Python.  The Creative Project theme allows pupils to build IT solutions such as mobile apps and computer games. The Junior School Computing and ICT curriculum will be updated regularly to reflect current computing trends.

The Computing and ICT department has excellent facilities. There are five well equipped ICT rooms and access to the latest software. The department currently consists of two subject teachers, including the current Head of Department as well as the Director of IT across the College), supported by a team of onsite technicians. This position arises due to the departure of the current post holder; the position is available from September 2022 (or sooner if possible).

Denstone College has developed an enviable reputation for achievement in academic and other areas, confirmed by the most recent ISI inspection (November 2017) which judged the school to be “excellent” in terms of the quality of pupils’ academic and other achievements and also pupils’ personal development.  

The position comes with responsibility for all areas of ICT and Computing relating to the curriculum, with the successful candidate likely to teach up to 25 periods per week of timetabled lessons (where one lesson last 40 minutes). Teaching will potentially be across all age groups, with the possibility of some involvement also in delivering the subject in our Prep Division (opened onsite in September 2021). Full time staff also act as house tutors and are expected to be involved in the College’s extensive sporting and co-curricular activities programme. 

This position represents an exciting opportunity for the successful candidate to make a positive difference to the academic outcomes and experiences of our students in a growing department. Life at Denstone is busy but also extremely rewarding!