Technology

ICT is part of the curriculum throughout the school. It is taught as a discrete subject in Years 7-9, and those who opt for ICT in the GCSE years actually take AS level and have the option of going on to an A level in Year 12. Alternatively, boys may choose ICT A level as a two year course in the Sixth Form.

The policy at QEH is to establish substantial ICT facilities around the school. It is viewed as a tool to be used throughout the curriculum, and the widespread availability of such resources through departmental clusters helps us to maintain this aim. Boys therefore have access to ICT and the network in lessons without the need to travel to the ICT suite.

"We want our boys to make connections between subjects studied at school and the real world outside ."

There are Smart boards or InterWrite pads installed in all relevant teaching rooms, helping logical links between subjects via technology and preparing boys for the world beyond school. All PCs have filtered and monitored internet access and run the latest industry standard Microsoft software. Boys have the opportunity to use digital cameras, scanners and computer interface hardware together with an interactive whiteboard and projector.

QEH is also fortunate in having the latest ICT facilities located close to allied subjects including electronics and design technology.

Design technology in resistant materials is also an option at QEH. All boys take DT in Years 7 and 8 and the subject is a popular choice in Year 9. Here, as well as in ICT, the accent is on a practical, 'hands-on' approach which is well-suited to boys' learning style. For this reason, as for subjects such as music, it is taught in half classes.