Computing Digital Media

CDM Overview

CDM is very important to the success of our students in a digital, inter-connected world. Computing/ICT is a discrete academic discipline but is also embedded in virtually every area of academic study, since the use of computer technologies have become essential skills.

Additionally, computer technology has become an important tool in creative expression, supporting an exponential growth in the ability of artists, including musicians, gamers and filmmakers, to self-publish. The technologies explored will help pupils to improve their interaction with other students, as well as staff, by encouraging pupils to develop their broader communication and digital literacy skills in a variety of ways with a focus on software offered in the Google Suite. Students collaborate on projects in Google Classroom when completing the Black History Month presentation and various other projects.

Learning to use computers is engaging and motivating for many of our pupils. By using computers  in a supervised school setting, pupils will hopefully become better at using them independently, at home and elsewhere, and will avoid some of the dangers posed by computers like negative or inappropriate contact with others and too much screentime. ICT can also encourage creativity and help pupils to take greater responsibility for their own learning. By becoming better able to plan, organise their ideas and research topics, they may find it easier to produce and present work of a high standard.

Students at Bensham Manor have access to a range of technologies in the classroom and around the school that supports their learning. Since 2019, the CDM department has offered a range of qualifications including Entry Level 2 and 3 in Ascentis Digital Media, this award enables students to focus on digital photography, digital music, audio and video software. This qualification promotes further knowledge of the creative arts. It breaks down barriers, which historically may have prevented students from progressing to the next level of learning. We develop  ICT functional skills which focuses on literacy, Email and Document Formatting in Year 9, 10, 11. Pupils have two lessons a week of Computing and Digital Media per week and once every half term we offer a whole school session focused on an area of Online Safety during assembly. We also complete quick 10 minute recaps on Online Safety topics with lessons by completing Blooket quizzes on various Online Safety topics.

This year we are offering Level 1/ 2 OCR Creative iMedia to our more able learners.

Completing the OCR Cambridge National in Creative iMedia (Level 1/2) provides a blend of academic, personal, and vocational benefits, focusing on practical digital skills. It is designed to be a vocational equivalent to a GCSE, offering a hands-on, project-based approach to learning. The Certificate  is equivalent to one GCSE (grades 4-9 for L2, grades 3-1 for L1).

The projects offer real-life contexts, assignments are based on client briefs, teaching students to work to specific, professional requirements.The course provides Industry Insight by providing knowledge of different media sectors, products, and job roles (e.g., graphic designer, video editor, web developer).It helps students to develop transferable skills such as time management, project planning, and teamwork.