Computer Science & Informatics
All Year 9 pupils will explore the world of computing and coding, ensuring they have a good understanding of the systems underpinning the digital age. Pupils will be encouraged to think logically to solve problems as well as develop hands on experience in electronics and robotics.
Curriculum overview
In Year 10 and Year 11, pupils taking the IGCSE in Computer Science will apply their understanding to develop computer-based solutions to problems using algorithms. Pupils will be taught to code using Python, a popular high-level programming language, but the fundamental techniques will provide pupils the skillset to learn other languages. The skills learnt can also be used in other areas of study and in everyday life. Learners will develop a range of technical skills, as well as being able to effectively test and evaluate computing solutions. This course will help learners appreciate current and emerging computing technologies, the benefits of their use and recognise the ethical issues and potential risks when using computers. The course is assessed by two examinations that are marked externally; there is no coursework.
For full details of the curriculum, please use the link below.
Department staff
- Mrs Vanessa North-Panting, BSc, PGCE – Head of Computer Science
- Dr Jem Pearson, BA, MSc, MRes, DPhil
- Mr Binit Shah, BA, MMath, PGCE - Head of Department
Mrs Vanessa North-Panting, BSc, PGCE – Head of Computer Science
Mrs North-Panting will join us in January 2021, and has over 20 years’ experience in technology and education gained globally at top independent schools including Bedales and Queenswood in the UK and, most recently, JESS & Jebel Ali School in the UAE where she is presently Head of Computer Science. With a degree in Computer Science she has also worked in industry – IBM in the UK and the Human Rights Commission in Australia. TED is a particular passion for Mrs North-Panting, having curated four TEDx events in Dubai she was awarded a scholarship to attend TEDWomen in 2016. In the true spirit of TED, Mrs North-Panting loves to hear about ideas worth spreading particularly if they involve technology. Away from teaching, Mrs North-Panting can be found on the golf course, cycling or playing padel tennis.
Dr Jem Pearson, BA, MSc, MRes, DPhil
Dr Pearson teaches Chemistry and Computer Science at Charterhouse. He completed a degree in physics at Trinity College, Cambridge followed by an MSc in Theoretical Particle Physics at Sussex University, then back to Cambridge for a Masters in Mathematics and their one-year Diploma in Computer Science. Dr Pearson then made a move into chemistry with a one-year MRes in Chemistry at Queen Mary, University of London, followed by a PhD at Oxford University in Synthetic Organic Chemistry. He worked as a private tutor in London for five years and taught physics at St Edward's school in Oxford for one year before joining Charterhouse. His main interest is coding and building apps for the iPhone and Android. He also does a bit of stand-up comedy, and enjoys running.
Mr Binit Shah, BA, MMath, PGCE - Head of Department
Mr Shah studied Mathematics at Trinity College, University of Cambridge. He joined Charterhouse in 2014, having previously worked in financial analytics and software engineering. He is the Head of Academic IT, Assistant Head of the Scholars and Assistant Housemaster of Saunderites. He was Warden of the Old Headmaster’s House (2017-2019). Outside of the classroom, he coaches football and tennis and is involved in the CCF.