The IT Department believes that IT should be a tool to be used in all areas of work as appropriate.  There are skills to be learnt and techniques to be mastered to make the most of the technology available but the main reason for having computers is for the help they give each individual in whatever field work is being done. 

During Key Stage 3, capability in IT is developed in a cross-curricular way with all subjects in the curriculum contributing what they consider appropriate.  Lessons are time-tabled for some subjects in one of three purpose-built computer rooms, all connected to the same file-server on an Ethernet network.  Each room has printing facilities and scanners; colour printers and CD-ROM facilities are also provided.  Each student is set up with an individual area with their own password which encourages students to be aware of security issues and the importance of privacy of information.  Some subject areas have computer facilities of their own, in particular Design and Music.  The subject area decides what aspect of  the work they cover can benefit from the use of particular software but all IT work is mapped, assessed and recorded so that a teacher assessed level for the subject can be agreed for each student at the end of the key stage.

In Key Stage 4, all students follow a Core Course.  The course is certified internally at two levels, Foundation and Higher.  The aim of the course is to further develop the students' skill in the use of specific software and their capability to make decisions regarding appropriate situations in which to use it.  The course includes cross-curricular connections, in particular with careers, and staff from five other departments contribute to the teaching. An opportunity is given for some students to opt for an IT GCSE Short Course.  Though only one lesson a week, the course enables students to learn more about using IT and its applications in the outside world.  The qualification gained provides an indication to future employers of the interest and skill developed in the subject.

In the Sixth Form, two courses are offered.  An AS course complements the A level courses that many students take and provide them with the opportunity to improve analysing and designing skills while learning about the impact of IT on individuals, organisations and society as a whole.  The other course is certified by the RSA giving well recognized qualifications to students who wish to improve their skills in the use of computers and generic software.  The opportunity is available for Sixth Form students to access the Internet, a new development in school which will hopefully be further developed  for all students in the near future.

Outside lesson time, the facilities available are used for coursework,  the school newspaper and a computer club mainly for Year 7 students to gain practice in the use of equipment and software.