Welcome to the ICT Department

Computers are now an essential part of our society.  Computers are built into everyday objects and are used as tools to handle information and to communicate.  It is vital that all our pupils gain confidence and capability in using ICT in order to prepare them for later life. The use of ICT can also expand and extend a pupil’s learning across the whole curriculum. Therefore the ICT curriculum at The Mount is designed to equip pupils with a sound understanding of the capabilities of computers and specific skills that enable them to use the most common software efficiently.

The aims of teaching ICT are:
• ICT be presented as a creative and interesting process in which pupils are encouraged to use their own initiative, imagination, reasoning and investigative skills.
• Pupils appreciate the relevance of ICT in our society and that they see it as an essential tool for learning, communication, finding information, controlling and understanding their environment.
• Every pupil receives an equal opportunity to develop their ICT capability.
• All pupils are extended in each area of the ICT curriculum so that they reach their full potential. 
• Pupils learn to use the computer’s different functions in an organised and confident manner and to derive enjoyment and understanding in doing so.
• Pupils learn to work individually and as part of a group.
• The skills that pupils acquire during ICT lessons can be used in other subject areas.

The pupils have a double lesson a week in Years 7, 8 and 9. Forms are split into smaller groups so that everyone can have a computer to themselves. The girls learn to use the following applications:

Word processing, presentation software, spreadsheets and databases using MS Office.

Drawing, desktop publishing, photo editing, web design and movie editing using Serif.

In Years 10 and 11 girls can choose ICT for one of their GCSE subjects. We are currently offering the new Edexcel GCSE in Information and Communication Technology.