ICT
Our ICT Department is a dynamic and forward-thinking hub of innovation, dedicated to equipping pupils with the digital skills and knowledge essential for success in the modern world. We pride ourselves on being a thriving and vibrant department, consistently achieving outstanding results at both GCSE and A Level.
From Year 8 through to Year 14, we deliver a comprehensive and progressive curriculum designed to develop technical proficiency, problem-solving ability, and creativity. Our teaching approach focuses on building core digital competencies, fostering critical thinking, and preparing pupils for the challenges and opportunities of an increasingly technology-driven society.
We offer a diverse and engaging curriculum that spans from essential ICT skills to advanced areas such as database management, spreadsheet analysis, and graphics design. Pupils also explore creative and technical disciplines including website development, game design, and coding, gaining hands-on experience with industry-standard software and tools.
Through practical projects and innovative lessons, learners build confidence and competence, ensuring they leave school equipped with highly sought-after digital skills that open doors to both higher education and future careers.
KS3
At Key Stage 3, our priority is to lay a solid foundation of digital skills that will benefit pupils in every aspect of their future, regardless of the career path they choose. We aim to develop confident, adaptable learners who can think critically, solve problems, and communicate effectively in an increasingly digital world.
Year 8
Desktop Publishing: Designing professional-quality documents
Presentation Skills: Creating impactful, visually engaging presentations
Graphics Editing: Enhancing and refining images using advanced editing
Graphic Generating: Producing original digital artwork and visuals
Animations: Bringing concepts to life with dynamic motion graphics
Movie Creation: Planning, producing, and editing video content
Year 9
Database Development: organize and manage data efficiently
Spreadsheet Analysis: Develop skills for calculations and data visualization
Internet Analytics: basics of digital footprints and online safety
Website Development: Design and build your own web pages
Game Development: Understand game mechanics and user experience
Coding: programming fundamentals using languages like Python
Minecraft for Education: Learn coding within Minecraft to automate tasks
Year 10
Technology is at the heart of almost every career and industry and we want every pupil to leave school with a recognized qualification in IT, regardless of the path they choose for GCSE or A Level.
All Year 10 pupils will complete OCN Level 2 Essential Skills in Digital ICT. This ensures that all students develop practical, transferable skills that will support them in further education, employment, and everyday life. This qualification is designed to build confidence and competence in using technology effectively.
They will cover;
Advanced Communication
Advanced Document Creating and Editing
Advanced Number Handling
KS4
At Key Stage 4, our focus is on equipping pupils with advanced digital skills that prepare them for life beyond school. We aim to ensure every student leaves with a recognized IT qualification, giving them a competitive edge in further education and the workplace. Through practical, real-world tasks, pupils develop proficiency in essential software, creative tools, and web technologies. This stage emphasizes independence, problem-solving, and adaptability skills that are vital in an ever-changing digital landscape.
CCEA GCSE in Digital Technology
Students acquire and apply knowledge and understanding of digital technology in a variety of contexts. We complete Route A: Multimedia which consists of;
Unit 1: Digital Technology | Written Exam | 30% of GCSE
Unit 2: Digital Authoring Concepts | Written Exam | 40% of GCSE
Unit 3: Digital Authoring Practice | Internal Coursework | 30% of GCSE
OCN NI Level 2 Certificate in Information Technology Applications
Designed to provide learners with the IT skills required to function successfully in the work and wider environment. This course is assessed 100% through coursework with no external exam. Units include;
Word Processing Software
Email Software Skills
IT User Fundamentals
Spreadsheet Software
Using the Internet
KS5
At Key Stage 5, our goal is to provide students with the advanced technical knowledge and professional skills needed to thrive in higher education and the modern workplace. This stage focuses on deepening understanding of complex IT concepts while encouraging independent learning, creativity, and innovation. Students engage with industry-standard tools and technologies, developing expertise in areas such as programming, systems analysis, and digital media. Through practical projects and problem-solving tasks, they learn to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, preparing them for careers in technology or any field where digital competence is essential. KS5 ICT empowers learners to become confident, adaptable professionals ready for the challenges of a rapidly evolving digital world.
CCEA A Level in Digital Technology
Our GCE in Digital Technology is for students interested in current and emerging technologies, the impact they have and how to use them effectively. This qualification is likely to appeal to all, but it might particularly interest those who enjoyed studying Digital Technology GCSE or Mathematics.
AS
Unit 1: Approaches to Systems Development | Written Exam | 20% of A Level
Unit 2: Fundamentals of Digital Technology | Written Exam | 20% of A Level
A2
Unit 1: Information Systems | Written Exam | 40% of A Level
Unit 2: Application Development | Internal Coursework | 20% of A Level
OCR Cambridge Technicals in ICT Level 3
The Cambridge Technicals are vocational qualifications at A level for students aged 16+. They’re designed with the workplace in mind. Units include;
Communication and Employability Skills for IT
Information Systems
Website Production
Computer Game Platforms and Technologies
Digital Graphics
Developing a Smarter Planet
De La Salle has been a leading partner with OCR in delivering the Cambridge Technicals to our post 16 pupils with great success. For the past five years, 100% of our A level pupils gained an A grade in their A level ICT.
Esports
De La Salle takes part in a UK wide eSports tournament every year. Nintendo have donated six Switch consoles in order to take part in the tournament. Over 6000 pupils will go head-to-head in the immersive careers event, which aims to educate pupils in roles within eSports and the wider games industry, as well as providing a pro experience for team players.
School-based regional heats will run until the 1st March 2026, before the Regional Qualifiers from the 6th - 31st March 2026 and the Grand Final event in April 2026, to coincide with the London Games Festival supported by Games London.
Last year De La Salle reached the 2025 finals in London in an all day event that was live streamed on Twitch.
