ICT

ICT is everywhere. There is hardly an aspect of our lives that is not dominated by ICT; from how we learn in the classroom to how we spend our free time. Over the last number of years ICT has dramatically changed the way we live our lives from mobile phones, twitter and Netflix to online learning, shopping and security.

“ICT is the fastest growing and dynamic sector of the Northern Ireland economy highlighting the employment opportunities that are on offer in this field”

Our ultimate goal here at the college is to help our pupils become fluent in digital literacy and to equip them with the skills needed to excel in further and higher education and in industry

Careers:

Software Developer, Network Manager, Programmer/ Developer, Web designer/ Developer, Project Manager, IT Technician, Computer Game Developer, Graphic Designer, Data Analyst, Digital Marketing Manager, Hardware Engineer, Teacher and many more.

Staff:

I.T Head of Department: Ms N Hamill
I.T. Co-ordinator: Ms N Hamill
Staff: Ms B Pollington, Ms J Canning, Mr C Donaghy

IT Technicians: Mr J Doherty

Key Stage 3

All key stage 3 pupils enjoy one discrete IT lesson a week. The main focus of these lessons is to introduce pupils to a number of different software applications including Microsoft office, audacity, moviemaker, scratch coding and web design. Pupils are given the opportunity to create applications rather than just use them and along the way inspire and enthuse one-another.

Key Stage 4

GCSE: Digital Technology

Digital technology incorporates aspects of computer science and information technology. It explores how we can use technology to create, store, process, analyse and present information in a digital context. Students can choose to complete the course as a multimedia option or a programming option. The course involves 3 units. 70% exam, 30% coursework.

GCSE: Occupational studies in Design and Creativity

The world of work is constantly changing. It is increasingly unlikely that a single occupation will take employees from the beginning to the end of their working lives, so transferability and adaptability are important skills. This specification is uniquely structured with this in mind. Learners have the opportunity to learn for work, through work and about work, with real outcomes that will give them skills for life. Occupational Studies can provide a hands-on approach to learning

Course content: Two units – Graphic design and Web design
Units designed to develop vocational skills in graphic design and website development and associated activities. Learners will develop skills in planning, producing and presenting a website and graphic design product using industry standard procedures

Key stage 5

Cambridge Technicals Level 3 Introductory Diploma

This is an innovative qualification suitable for a wide range of students. It is structured to accommodate the needs of employers and also allow progression to university, and it is equivalent to one A Level. It will give learners the opportunity to develop their knowledge and skills in IT systems, systems management, social media in business and allow students to design and develop digital technologies to support organisations. This will enable learners to progress to further study in the IT sector or other sectors. The course is 100% coursework. It consists of 2 core units and 4 optional units.

Extra Curricular

Pupils can avail of open access to ICT facilities every day at breaktime. Laptops are also available every afternoon at the homework club from 3.10-4.10pm. Throughout the year there are after school facilities in the ICT department where all pupils can avail of specialist assistance and senior pupils can continue coursework development