Computing

We equip pupils with the skills and understanding to use computers effectively. It helps pupils become confident, responsible users of a range of technology. Our computing curriculum is split into three areas. These are Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy. These areas are covered during weekly computing lessons. Pupils learn how digital systems work and how to create and debug programs of their own.

Our curriculum is planned so that pupils can apply and consolidate their computing skills within many areas of our curriculum. These include mathematics, literacy and science. Our PSHE curriculum also provides further opportunities to embed our digital literacy skills. We ensure our pupils understand how to be safe and responsible users of technology. This is both inside and outside of school.

The computing curriculum teaches pupils how they can keep themselves safe. This includes across a range of online and gaming platforms, including social media. Online safety is taught explicitly within computing sessions and wider curriculum activities.

We work with pupils’ families to ensure our pupils know what to do to keep safe online. We share how to deal with any problems and what they should do if they are concerned or worried.

In Nursery, the pupils experience technological equipment as part of focus activities. This is also done as enhancements throughout daily provision in the classroom. The children are encouraged to use simple equipment. This is done through modelling and investigation. the equipment includes mobile phones, interactive screens and tablets. We encourage families to help develop the children’s understanding of technology. Pupils complete challenges at home which we can’t always provide at school. For example, pressing a button at a crossing to activate the change of traffic lights.

In Reception, pupils have access to a range of technology such as mobile phones, iPads and interactive screens. They use and investigate these during continuous provision. Pupils use and explore a range of age-appropriate programs with purpose and are taught how to program simple software. Pupils in Reception are introduced to online safety. They are taught simple strategies of how to keep themselves safe whilst online.

In Key Stage 1, pupils select and use technology purposefully and safely. They build on their prior introduction to online safety. Pupils are exposed to and start to understand algorithms. They begin to create and debug simple, age-appropriate programs.

In Key Stage 2, pupils build upon their understanding of algorithms. They use these to design, write and debug programs that achieve a specific outcome. Pupils continue to use logical reasoning to overcome errors within such programs. Key Stage 2 enables pupils to develop an understanding of computer networks. This includes the internet. Using their understanding of online safety, they explore the opportunities the World Wide Web can provide us. This includes for communication and collaboration.