Computing
Curriculum Intent
Technology is everywhere and will play a pivotal part in students' lives, therefore, it is important to model and educate our pupils on how to use technology positively, responsibly and safely. We want our pupils to be creators not consumers and our broad curriculum encompassing computer science, information technology and digital literacy reflects this. We want our pupils to understand that there is always a choice when using technology and as a school we utilise technology (especially social media) to model positive use. We recognise that the best prevention for a lot of issues we currently see with technology/social media is through education. We recognise that technology can allow pupils to share their learning in creative ways. We also understand the accessibility opportunities technology can provide for our pupils. Our knowledge and skills-based curriculum is balanced with the opportunity for pupils to apply their knowledge creatively which will in turn help our pupils become skilful computer scientists. We encourage staff to try and embed computing across the whole curriculum to make learning creative and accessible. We want our pupils to be fluent with a range of tools to best express their understanding and aim for pupils to have the independence and confidence to choose the best tool to fulfil the task and challenge set by teachers by the end of Key Stage 2.
Curriculum Implementation
All Children begin their computing education using purple mash in order to learn skills and programs.
EYFS: Pupils in EYFS are introduced to ICT through operating simple machinery such as CD players, Beebots, remotes and cameras. It is in EYFS that pupils are taught the basics of how to retrieve information and begin to learn about their safety in the online world. In addition, pupils in EYFS are encouraged to participate in team working projects that involve building simple structures to develop their STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) skills.
KS1: As the children progress into KS1 they are taught to recognise parts of a computer and how to operate one. Additionally, KS1 pupils are then introduced to the purposes of different programmes, such as spreadsheets, through the application of ‘Purple Mash.’ The pupils are encouraged to utilise their logical thinking through implementing coding, debugging and algorithms as they build their own mazes and animated stories.
KS2: As the pupils transition into KS2, their previous learning of computing is built upon as ‘Purple Mash’ enables pupils to access and revise their previous creations. In KS2 children start to explore, create, develop and understand a data base. Furthermore, KS2 investigate how a programme is able to identify problems that may occur in programmes and provide a solution. The children explore the accuracy of algorithms and how to control them so that it can function efficiently. Each year, every child is taught about online-safety to ensure understanding of their online presence and how to keep themselves safe. This encompasses subjects such as keeping personal information private, what is cyber bullying and how to address it, and being able to identify suitable websites.
Curriculum Impact
Following our curriculum of skills and knowledge will ensure -
- Children become proficient users of technology who are able to work both independently and collaboratively.
- Computing hardware and software is being utilised to enhance the learning outcomes of our children, across the curriculum.
- Clear progression in technical skills.
- Children become confident and supportive Digital Leaders who are able to assist peers and staff in delivering high quality Computing sessions.
- Understand their online presence and how to keep themselves safe.
- Excitement as children engage in a wide range of digital programs and hardware.
Click the following link to find out more about our computing curriculum.