Computer Science

Computer Science has the potential to influence many careers in the future, and, here at King’s, we recognise the importance of this. Pupils have three Computer Science lessons every fortnight in the First Form. An innovative and dynamic approach to these lessons will enable pupils to develop their understanding of the subject whilst experiencing some of the most exciting advancements in technology, such as robotics and artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and virtual reality.

Lessons will build pupil knowledge of computational thinking through exploring the programming language Small Basic, as well as exploring problem solving in Python. The curriculum structure will allow pupils to further develop their understanding around computer hardware and software alongside being introduced to the concepts related to image enhancement and image manipulation to further develop their technical skills and awareness of the powerful influence of computer programmes. They will work with Microbits, where a practical application of coding can be seen on the display.

Drama

Drama gives people the opportunity to create, perform and explore our own journeys as well as the experiences of others. It embraces the world around us, exploring through practical means the way the world works and how we exist within it. It is exciting and creative, rewarding and engaging. The subject allows for endless amounts of creativity and imagination, developing empathy and understanding as well as practical and technical skills.

At King’s, Drama is about discovery: finding out about the ways in which theatre can be made, issues and themes explored and characters portrayed. Students have one formal lesson of Drama a week and learn practically, developing skills in teamwork, time management and organisation as well as developing confidence and the ability to problem solve. In the First Form we explore vibrant scripts such as Skellig and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and diverse topics including Anne Frank and The Plague. We aim to foster a love of communicating through creating, performing and responding to theatre.

Pupils will be encouraged to use computers and software within the wider curriculum, with the expectation that all will gain a proficiency in using basic software. This will be achieved through completing a project to make pupils more familiar with the software in the Microsoft Office package.

King’s Drama Department encourages theatre inside and outside the classroom, offering many opportunities for both academic learning and extra-curricular development. We provide Drama Clubs for KS3 pupils and do two productions a year: one whole school and one just for KS3. The most recent productions have been The Railway Children, Antigone and The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, School of Rock and Brothers Grimm – something to interest every pupil. We also do House Drama bi-annually. Alongside performing we focus on training students in technical theatre so that they can take on the vital roles of the production team including student director, stage manager, lighting, sound and costume design.

The department also offers LAMDA lessons alongside many other rewarding extra-curricular opportunities.