Computer Science - Koper International School

Computer Science from Primary to Secondary

At Koper International School, we believe that digital literacy is as essential as reading, writing, and mathematics. In today’s digital world, students need to be more than just consumers of technology—they must become confident, critical users who understand how digital systems work and how to use them responsibly. Technology is not something to be feared, but rather embraced with education and guidance. That’s why our curriculum integrates digital education from Year 1 onwards, ensuring that students are introduced early to the tools and values that will help them succeed in a digital society. Through our approach, students also learn how to evaluate online information, identify misinformation, and protect their safety and wellbeing in digital environments. Of course - Students are not allowed to use their devices without direct permission from their teacher. Please see our school's Computer use policy for more details on rules and regulations about using technology safely in the classroom.

Devices for Learning: Digital Tools in the Classroom

From Year 1 to Year 4, students are required to bring a tablet or iPad to school. These devices support a range of learning activities, from interactive games to educational apps and collaborative tasks. From Year 5 onwards, students transition to a laptop computer (either Windows or Mac), which enables them to engage in more advanced computing tasks including word processing, presentation creation, online collaboration, and programming.

In addition to classroom use, teachers may assign homework tasks on these devices starting from Year 1. This may include activities like completing a unit on a maths app or watching a short educational video, depending on the subject and learning goals. These assignments are typically set monthly and are clearly communicated to parents by the class teacher to ensure alignment between school and home learning. Our goal is to foster confident, independent learners while keeping parents informed and involved in the digital learning journey.

Foundation Stage: Year 1 – Year 3

In Years 1 to 3, students attend a dedicated digital literacy lesson once per week. These lessons introduce foundational digital skills such as how to safely use a device, basic typing, and navigating educational applications. Technology is also used across subjects to enhance learning—for instance, in mathematics through interactive learning apps, or in history and science for simple supervised online research or collaborative group tasks.

All digital activity is carefully monitored by teachers, and students are not permitted to use devices without direct permission. We also advise parents to enable parental control and safety features on their child’s device to reinforce safe habits at home. This stage focuses on curiosity and exploration while establishing core values of digital responsibility and security.

Building Confidence: Year 4

In Year 4, students are introduced to the Google Workspace for Education. They begin learning how to use Google Docs, Slides, and Google Classroom to complete assignments, collaborate on presentations, and submit work. They will attend one to two IT lessons per week, during which they explore more complex digital tools and internet safety concepts.

Tablets continue to be used for interactive learning across the curriculum. In addition to formal IT lessons, digital technology may be integrated into other subjects through research projects or group presentations. This balanced exposure prepares students for a seamless transition to more structured digital work in upper primary and secondary school.

Skill Expansion: Year 5 and Year 6

Year 5 marks the transition from tablet to laptop use, and with it comes an expansion of digital learning. Students begin formal programming lessons with a specialist secondary school computer science teacher—held twice a week—where they explore foundational coding skills and problem-solving through technology. This is a significant step in preparing students for more complex tasks later in their education.

Students also begin to regularly type creative writing, essays, and projects using Google Docs, and are taught to properly format and edit their work. Technology is used across subjects to support independent learning, and students learn how to cite online sources and conduct structured internet research.

They are also introduced to the regular use of Google Classroom—used to track assignments, upload homework, receive teacher feedback, and improve organisation skills. This helps students take increasing responsibility for their learning and prepares them for the expectations of secondary school life.

Secondary Development: Year 7 – Year 9

From Year 7, digital learning becomes more embedded across all subject areas. Students continue with twice-weekly programming lessons, where they develop skills in algorithms, logic, debugging, and interactive coding platforms. These lessons grow in complexity to match students’ increasing digital fluency.

Google Classroom becomes an essential tool in daily life at our school—used by both teachers and students to share class materials, post assignments, and submit work. Some subjects may rely heavily on digital resources, while others may use them selectively depending on the unit. Students are regularly required to complete digital tasks for group projects, research assignments, presentations, and self-directed learning activities.

They also develop digital referencing skills and practice evaluating online sources critically—essential for becoming informed and responsible digital citizens.

IGCSE and A-Level Pathway: Year 10 – Year 13

In the final four years of school, students take increasing ownership of their digital learning. Homework and coursework are routinely assigned and submitted via Google Classroom, and students are expected to manage deadlines independently and communicate with teachers in a professional digital manner.

Students who choose IGCSE Computer Science attend three lessons per week focusing on topics such as programming, algorithms, and computer systems. This prepares them for internationally recognised qualifications and builds strong foundations for continued study or digital careers.

At A-Level, Computer Science becomes a highly specialised course with six dedicated lessons per week. Students explore hardware architecture, software development, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and ethical implications of technology. These advanced studies prepare students for a wide range of degrees and careers in the digital economy.

Technology is also integrated across other A-Level subjects, supporting research, essay writing, presentation work, and portfolio development. By the time students graduate, they are equipped with the digital fluency, analytical thinking, and collaborative skills needed to thrive in modern academic and professional environments.