Our maths and computer science faculty is one of our most popular at Christ College, with over half of our Lower Sixth pupils choosing to study one of the subjects and a significant number opting to study further.
Pupils who study mathematics or computer science at Christ College will be able to develop a range of core skills that can greatly benefit them once they start their careers, including time management, problem solving, analytical thinking and the ability to construct logical arguments.
Our computer facilities are equipped with some of the latest technologies. We have three ICT suites in total, with more than 70 networked PCs for our pupils to use. Our computers run on the latest Windows software and includes exciting programmes such as Visual Studio Community for our programming modules, and Citrix, which enables our pupils to access their own document folders on their personal machines.
Outside of the classroom, both our mathematics and ICT pupils partake in a range of educational activities to help enhance their learning. This includes competing in the national UK Maths Trust Challenge, with many of our pupils gaining Bronze, Silver or Gold awards, or joining a coding club where pupils learn about programming languages such as JavaScript and Python.
Departments:
Mathematics
Head of Faculty: Mrs L Ashdown
The Mathematics Faculty is a single subject faculty with 4 full time teachers. Housed in the ground floor of the main classroom block, it occupies a suite of 4 classrooms, each with data projectors and most with interactive whiteboards. Compulsory at Key Stages 3 and 4, it is the most popular subject choice in the Sixth Form with over half the Lower Sixth year opting for Mathematics and a significant number also studying Further Mathematics.
There is a good support system in place to help those with particular difficulties and there are “drop-in” tutorial sessions for examination classes throughout the week which pupils are encouraged to attend. Throughout the school, there is the opportunity to participate in the national UK Maths Trust Challenges with many pupils gaining Bronze, Silver or Gold awards with some of the top performers going on to further stages; last year we had 3 Year 12 make it through to the final round of the Mathematical Olympiad.
Computer Science & ICT
In the ICT and Computer Science Department at Christ College we seek to: –
- Encourage emancipated, self-directing learners with excellent career prospects by setting problems that require tenacity and independent research.
- Develop capabilities in solving deep multidimensional problems which require sensitivity to a variety of concerns, by using real life case studies.
- Recognise that ICT and Computing are a part of the most dynamic areas of the tertiary sector – making sure that we engage students in collaborative learning as well as encouraging individual flair and imagination to succeed in this market.
Outside of the classroom, pupils can gain experience of programming languages such as Java Script and Python, using cutting edge multimedia platforms such as that offered by “Code Combat”. The aim of this club is to inspire interest and enthusiasm in all of the exciting areas of ICT and move well beyond the standard syllabuses.
We have three ICT suites – one of which is brand new. Collectively, we have over 70 networked PCs for pupil use. The computers all run Windows 7 with Office (2013). We also use Visual Studio Community (2017) for GCSE & GCE programming. Finally, pupils have access to Citrix, which enables them to run school software and access their school document folders on their own personal machines. This system works with both PCs and Apple computers.
