This month, we are focusing our Spotlight on our ICT and Digital Technology programmes. Mrs. Margaret Debaddi, Head of ICT commented, ‘Our pupils learn a broad range of skills valuable for life as well as IT literacy. Pupils learn problem solving, team work and the resilience to keep trying when facing setbacks’.

The CCEA GCSE Digital Technology specification was introduced in 2017 and this qualification builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills developed through the cross-curricular skill of using ICT. Students choose to focus on either Multimedia or Programming where they acquire and apply knowledge and understanding of digital technology in a variety of contexts. They also develop creative and practical digital technology skills, either using a range of generic software or in an object-oriented environment. Students explore the legal, social, economic, ethical and environmental impact of digital technology. It also helps develop transferable skills such as creative problem-solving and teamwork. More information on Digital Technology GCSE and A Level can be found at this link.

We met with some of our pupils to hear what they had to say about their involvement in our ICT programming:

At Campbell, we also provide a variety of opportunities to develop IT literacy skills outside the curriculum, as pupils can take part in career events, clubs, workshops and competitions. Below we summarise some of the opportunities offered to date and photos from these events can be viewed in our reel below.

Bring It On workshop

In January, the school hosted a careers event for Year 10, focusing on computer and cyber security careers. The event included information on the GCSE, A-Level and post-secondary qualifications to raise awareness about career options for pupils.

Future Pathways Apprenticeships

We were delighted to welcome back OC Ruben Graham (12123) from the CME Group who discussed Higher Level Apprenticeships during a Future Pathways workshop. Reuben completed a Business and Technology degree at Ulster University and had some great experience to share with our pupils about opportunities to develop skills outside the formal university qualification approach.

Cyber Security workshop

In December the PSNI visited the school to provide workshops for pupils on IT legislation, issues with cyber security and online safety. The PSNI provided pupils will real-life examples to help students work safely online. Look out for more on this on Safer Internet Day on 7th February, where you find tips and advice for working online.

Robotics Club

Led by Mrs. Debbadi, The Robotics Club provides opportunities for pupils aged 11-14 to take part in builds using Lego Mindstorms. Teams of 10-20 enter into competitions against other schools. The Heats for Northern Ireland will take place in May and the finals will be held at the NEC in June.

Programming Club

Led by Mr. Templeton, a Programming Club has been recently introduced for pupils in Key Stages 3 and 4. Teams will be preparing for a competition at the end of March against 20 local area schools. The event is support by Liberty IT and will be held at Queen’s University.

Bebras 

Bebras is a computing challenge for pupils in Year 8-10 designed to test computational thinking.  Pupils from countries around the world take part in a series of timed challenges which are graded by age group with a range of difficulties. The objective is to complete the challenges set within 40 minutes. Follow this link to learn more about computational thinking.

Cyberfirst competition

Pupils recently took part in the Cyberfirst programme, which is run by the National Cyber Security Centre. Cyberfirst aims to encourage pupils to explore tech careers and in particular cyber security. Our pupils were awarded a Silver Award in 2021. Cyberfirst offered workshops for Years 10 and 11 go develop their problem-solving skills and understanding of the cyber world. Cyberfirst also offers mentoring provided by GCHQ and curricular advice.

Cyber Centurion competition

The Cyber Centurion competition is open to students in Years 10-14 and has been designed by the US Air Force National Center for Cyber Security. The program provides competitors with practical learning about cyber issues in the real world. Pupils learn team work, problem solving, leadership, communication and expertise. It is hoped the program will encourage students to explore STEM higher education and careers and provide a future skilled workforce able to address cyber security issues.

Minecraft competition

Minecraft Education, is an open-world game, designed to support learning in the classroom. Open to pupils in Year 8 and 9, the annual competition challenges pupils to build a more sustainable world. Pupils worked in collaboration with the Geography Department and support was also provided by the competition organisers.

If you would like to learn more about the ICT and Digital Technology options at Campbell, please contact Mrs. Debaddi Head of ICT.

Reel below of some of the events discussed above.