What is it to be a Computer Scientist at Marriotts?

We aim to maximise opportunities and mirror the Marriotts school ethos. We aim to give all students access to develop the Computing knowledge and skills needed to further their own personal development and equip them for their futures. Students study the design, development and analysis of software and hardware used to solve problems in a variety of business, scientific and social contexts

Our aim is to build on the strength of the curriculum offer to develop opportunities and learning outside the classroom and ensure that all students are given the opportunity to access them.

Curriculum Overview 

Key Stage 3

At KS3, students follow a broad and balanced Computing curriculum that fully meets the requirements of the National Curriculum. Our aim is to build strong digital literacy, computational thinking, and creative problem-solving skills, preparing students for future learning and the digital world around them.

Topics covered include:

• How Computers Work – understanding hardware, software, and how data is processed

• Programming in Scratch and Python – developing logic and algorithmic thinking

• Web Design with HTML – learning how to create and style websites using real code

• E-Safety and Digital Citizenship – exploring how to stay safe, responsible, and ethical online

• Data Representation, Networks, and Computer Systems – building foundational knowledge in key computing concepts

Our curriculum ensures that all students gain experience across the three key strands of computing: Computer Science, Information Technology, and Digital Literacy, in line with the National Curriculum.

Key Stage 4

At KS4, students can choose from two exciting pathways that cater to different interests and strengths:

• OCR GCSE Computer Science (J277):

This course focuses on the theory and practical elements of computing, including algorithms, data representation, cybersecurity, and computer systems, alongside hands-on Python programming.

• BTEC Tech Award in Digital Information Technology:

This vocational course blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills in user interface design, data management, and project planning, preparing students for further study or the workplace.

Key Stage 5

At KS5, we offer the new BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Information Technology (AAQ). First taught from September 2025, this updated qualification is equivalent to one A Level and forms part of the government-approved Academic and Applied Qualification (AAQ) suite.

The course provides a balanced blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ideal for students considering higher education, apprenticeships, or a career in the digital and IT sector.

The qualification includes four mandatory units:

• Information Technology Systems (externally assessed)

Students explore the role of IT in modern society and organisations, including hardware, software, networking, emerging technologies, and the ethical, legal and environmental impact of IT.

• Cyber Security and Incident Management (externally assessed)

This unit covers the different types of cyber threats, vulnerabilities, protection measures, and how to manage and investigate cyber security incidents effectively.

• Website Development (internally assessed)

Students design, build and evaluate a fully functional website, meeting the needs of a specific client brief, with a focus on usability, accessibility and design principles.

• Relational Database Development (internally assessed)

Learners develop skills in analysing client requirements, designing, building and optimising a relational database using real-world scenarios.

Click on the relevent year group curriculum maps in the document section below to find out more detail about what is studied in Marriotts Computing and IT department. For further details of the Computing and IT curriculum please contact Mr R Etienne R.Etienne@marriotts.herts.sch.uk.