At EBS, careers education is a central part of school life. We provide independent, impartial guidance to help students of all ages explore their strengths and passions, and to plan for their future.
In Years 10 and 11, students focus on preparing for life after GCSEs. Using our online platform Unifrog, they explore potential pathways, including Sixth Form, college courses and apprenticeships, and the subjects or qualifications required for different careers. We also provide opportunities to meet employers, training providers and local colleges, giving students real-world insight into the world of work. All students complete Year 10 work experience and meet our independent Careers Advisor to discuss their future plans.
Studying Computer Science at GCSE provides students with an exciting opportunity to understand how computers work and how technology shapes the modern world. The course develops both technical knowledge and problem-solving skills, giving students the tools to think logically and approach complex challenges with confidence.
Building on the foundations developed at Key Stage 3, students explore the inner workings of computer systems, including computer architecture, operations and performance. They learn how data is processed and stored, and gain an understanding of how hardware and software work together to allow computers to function effectively.
The course also introduces students to key networking concepts, including how computers communicate with each other and how the internet is configured. Alongside this, students develop their understanding of computational mathematics, learning to perform calculations using different number systems such as binary (base 2) and hexadecimal (base 16), which underpin how computers represent and process information.
A key element of the course is programming. Students learn to design, write and test modularised software programs using the dynamic text-based programming language Python. Through this process, they develop logical thinking, debugging skills and an understanding of how software is created.
In addition to the technical aspects, students also examine the social, ethical and legal implications of technology, considering how digital systems impact individuals, organisations and society. Computer Science provides a strong foundation for further study and opens pathways to careers in computing, engineering, cybersecurity, software development and many other technology-related fields.
