Curriculum Intent

At Manor Academy, the intent of the ICT curriculum is to develop independent, confident, and responsible users of technology who are well-prepared for adulthood, employment, and further education. 

Our curriculum has been updated to align with statutory Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSE) guidance, alongside careers guidance and digital safety expectations, ensuring pupils are equipped to navigate an increasingly digital world safely and effectively. 

We aim to: 

• Provide a broad and balanced ICT curriculum that supports all learners 

• Develop functional digital skills such as using Microsoft applications, managing files, and communicating online 

• Build independence and resilience, enabling pupils to complete tasks and solve problems confidently 

• Ensure pupils become safe, respectful, and responsible users of technology, with a strong emphasis on online safety and digital wellbeing 

• Embed real-life applications of ICT, preparing pupils for work and everyday living 

• Foster creativity through digital media, coding, and content creation 

The curriculum provides a clear pathway from foundational skills at KS3 through to OCR Entry Level ICT and BTEC Digital Media (Option) at KS4, supporting all pupils to achieve meaningful outcomes.

Curriculum Implementation

The ICT curriculum is delivered through a structured, progressive programme across Years 7–11, ensuring knowledge and skills are built over time and revisited to deepen understanding. 

Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9) 

Pupils develop core ICT skills through: 

• Learning how to use computers independently (logging in, saving, organising files) 

• Using Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, email, and Teams for communication and productivity 

• Developing safe searching skills and understanding how to find reliable information 

• Exploring creative software and coding (e.g. Scratch) 

• Understanding online safety, digital relationships, and responsible behaviour in line with RSE statutory guidance 

• Applying ICT to real-life contexts, such as forms, presentations, and simple data handling 

The curriculum places a strong emphasis on Preparation for Adulthood, ensuring pupils can apply their skills in everyday situations. 

Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11) 

At KS4, pupils follow pathways that build on KS3 learning: 

OCR Entry Level ICT (Compulsory for all pupils) 

Pupils: 

• Develop skills in using ICT systems, finding information, and creating digital content 

• Learn to communicate using ICT, including email and collaboration tools 

• Understand how to use technology safely and responsibly 

• Build independence through real-life tasks and practical application of ICT 

BTEC Level 1 Introductory in Digital Media (ICT Option from September 2026) 

Pupils: 

• Create digital media products such as posters, presentations, and visual content 

• Develop understanding of audience and purpose 

• Build creative and technical skills using a range of software 

• Work on project-based tasks, developing independence and problem-solving skills 

Teaching Approaches 

• Scaffolded learning to support pupils with SEND 

• Repetition and reinforcement of key skills 

• Practical, hands-on tasks linked to real-life contexts 

• Use of Office 365 (Teams, Forms, Word, etc.) to support collaboration and assessment 

• Regular opportunities for independent learning and problem solving 

RSE, Online Safety & Statutory Links 

Online safety is embedded throughout all year groups and reflects statutory RSE guidance. Pupils are taught to: 

• Protect their personal information and privacy 

• Recognise risks such as scams, cyberbullying, and inappropriate contact 

• Develop safe and respectful online relationships 

• Understand digital footprints and consequences of online behaviour 

The curriculum also supports Careers Guidance (Gatsby Benchmarks) by linking ICT skills to real-world applications and future pathways. 

Curriculum Impact

As a result of this curriculum, pupils will: 

• Become confident, independent users of ICT, able to access technology across different contexts 

• Demonstrate the ability to save, retrieve, organise, and present digital work independently 

• Communicate effectively using email and digital platforms 

• Apply ICT skills to real-life situations, including forms, budgeting, and workplace tasks 

• Understand how to stay safe online and make responsible decisions 

• Show increased confidence, resilience, and independence, particularly for pupils with SEND 

• Be well-prepared for further education, employment, and adult life 

Pupils will also achieve recognised outcomes through: 

• OCR Entry Level ICT qualifications 

• Progression into BTEC Digital Media and other vocational pathways 

Assessment is ongoing through: 

• Practical tasks and project-based learning 

• Digital submissions via Teams 

• Online quizzes and knowledge checks 

• Teacher termly assessment tracking 

• Teacher feedback and opportunities for improvement 

Social, Moral, Spiritual and Cultural

Spiritual: 
Pupils are encouraged to express themselves creatively through digital media, developing confidence and exploring their own ideas using technology. 

Moral: 
Pupils are taught to make responsible choices online, understanding the importance of safe behaviour, respecting others, and recognising right and wrong in digital environments. 

Social: 
Pupils are encouraged to communicate and collaborate using digital tools such as Teams and email, developing teamwork and respectful interaction. 

Cultural: 
Pupils explore how ICT is used in wider society and are encouraged to respect diversity and understand how technology connects people from different backgrounds. 

British Values

Democracy: 
Pupils are encouraged to share their ideas and opinions respectfully using digital platforms and understand that all voices should be heard. 

Rule of Law: 
Pupils learn to follow rules when using technology, including acceptable use and online safety guidelines. 

Individual Liberty: 
Pupils are supported to make safe choices online and understand their rights around privacy and personal safety. 

Mutual Respect and Tolerance: 
Pupils are encouraged to communicate respectfully and understand the importance of treating others with kindness in digital interactions.