The Information Communication Technology Policy at Pen Y Dre is one of leading pupils towards autonomous use of ICT software and hardware in preparation for an increasingly ICT orientated adult life.  As such, ICT experience is geared towards the use of industry standard PCs and Microsoft Windows and Office software. The realisation of this policy is through:

• the provision of ICT knowledge and skills for pupils at Key Stage 3 and the integration of ICT within subjects across the curriculum to enhance pupils’ learning and presentation of work;
• the provision of practical and examination courses at Key Stage 4;
• the provision of both academic and practical, examined and accredited courses post 16;
• the use of globally compatible computer systems and software which is commonly available to pupils at all levels;
• emphasis on ICT as a practical, skill based subject and assessment through practical application of ICT skills to solve problems;
• the use of the Moodle Virtual Learning Environment with 14-19 years learners;
• resourcing as a whole school policy;
• a policy on ICT terminology and vocabulary through the use of keywords;
• provision of regular ‘after school’ ICT Clubs.

The department’s Estyn Inspection report in 2003 indicated that standards of teaching and achievement at Key Stages 3, 4, and 5 are good and KS4 and KS5 examination results reflect pupils’ abilities and compare with local and national figures. The report reflects the hard work and commitment to high standards of every member of the department.  The only shortcoming reported was that the sharing of computers in some large Key Stage 3 classes slows the pace of progress for some pupils. This has now been alleviated.

The aim of the ICT department is to ensure that our pupils achieve their potential and we work closely with parents, our LEA and ESIS (our local advisory service) to ensure that we are at the forefront of educational initiatives.  We run homework clubs after school and encourage students to use our facilities whenever they are available.

We are a favoured placement department for the Welsh Assembly Government’s Graduate Teacher Programme and also regularly welcome students from the University of Wales Swansea and the University of Wales Gwent PGCSE courses.

The ICT Curriculum at Pen Y Dre is constantly being reviewed and improved and offers a wide and comprehensive experience for our students. The Estyn Inspection report stated that “Good progress has been made since the last inspection with a well structured KS3 provision and improving examination standards”.

The Department also offers a number of additional schemes/incentives to improve the examination results, key skills and raise the self-esteem and aspirations of the pupils:

• Homework clubs at least once a week.
• Study/coursework evenings in year 11.
• ICT club - four evenings a week.
• Key Skills workshops for Welsh Baccalaureate students.

Staffing structures and areas of responsibility are clearly defined and pupils are made fully aware of the ‘chain of command’ and the support structures available.