Computing & Media Studies

The Gregg School ensures that students develop a wide range of IT skills across the curriculum. Students learn to use a variety of software and hardware in order to increase their confidence with IT and to prepare them for their future careers. We have a school wide network of over 200 devices including laptops, tablets and workstations for students to use to enhance their learning. There are 2 dedicated IT suites and numerous laptops caddies in department areas for students to use throughout the day.

E-Safety is taught to all Year groups throughout their time at the School. It is covered in Computing and Personal and Social Development lessons as well as in assemblies and through events such as Safer Internet Day.

In Year 7, students learn how to use spreadsheets and databases as well as developing their computational thinking skills. Students are also introduced to Python programming, data representation and complete a project that focuses on the history of Computing. In Year 8, students continue to develop their problem solving skills whilst learning how to make apps, websites, animations and programming devices such as the BBC Micro:Bits. They also investigate the key hardware components needed to build a computer. In Year 9, students start to prepare for GCSE by studying different types of software, logic circuits, Python programming and extending their knowledge of computer hardware.

At GCSE, students develop their technical knowledge further by studying computer architecture and looking at numerous pieces of both hardware and software in detail. Students also develop their critical thinking and analysis skills then apply their knowledge to solve problems using programming.

GCSE Computing

Students are taught a variety of Computing skills throughout the school. This includes problem solving, writing algorithms and programming alongside developing their IT skills. Students have the opportunity to create apps, program Micro:bits, create websites and get an insight in to the inner workings of a computer. E-Safety is delivered to all Year groups throughout the year through Computing and PSHE lessons.

Media Studies is taught at The Gregg School in the upper school. We study the four key concepts of Media: Language, Institutions, Representation and Contexts. Within the Media Studies GCSE framework students cover all forms of media from print advertising, to digital and the impact of social media. 

Students visit TV and radio stations to develop their understanding of the process and impact of media and gain broadcasting experience.

Students develop skills in investigative and critical thinking - identifying issues that are important and relevant to people and learn the critical role that media plays in daily life. Students use their practical and creative skills to engage with an audience and about the use of specialist language.

Media Studies covers four major concepts: Media Language, Industry, Audience and Representation. These are explored via a range of forms and through the analysis of different print media products. 

The Examination Board chooses the products for examination and non-assessed coursework briefs each year but can be two written papers and a coursework element such as a media product developed for a specific audience.        

GCSE Media Studies