Computing

Intent

In a digital age we believe that it is essential for all pupils to gain the confidence and ability that they need in this subject, to prepare them for the challenge of a rapidly developing and changing technological world. The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Pupils are encouraged to express their creativity whilst using information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Our curriculum ensures children become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through, information and communication technology. Computing has deep links with mathematics, science, and design and technology, thus the use of ICT will also enhance and extend children’s learning across the whole curriculum.

We aim to ensure that all pupils:

can understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation
can analyse problems in computational terms, and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs in order to solve such problems
can evaluate and apply information technology, including new or unfamiliar technologies, analytically to solve problems
are responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information and communication technology.

Implementation

Planning and teaching: Throughout the year we cover a range of computing units – planned in line with the national curriculum - including, Information Technology; designing, creating, combining and manipulating media, Computer science; coding algorithms and debugging systems, Digital Literacy; using the internet to research, email, blog and publish information and E-safety; thoughtful online conduct, personal safety, questioning authenticity and reporting inappropriate content. These units are organised into a long term plan, carefully matched to class topics to enhance holistic learning. Staff use their professional judgement in order to choose the best programmes to support teaching and learning in their classrooms. Knowledge from previous units is built on each year to facilitate progression and are differentiated appropriately to allow all children to achieve objectives.

Equal Opportunities and SEN: All children in our school are valued. All lessons need to be carefully differentiated to ensure that all children’s needs are met. IEPs are written for children with specific needs and they are supported through differentiation, both within class and in withdrawal groups (when appropriate). Class teacher’s use: additional resources; differentiated tasks and outcomes; and various different teaching approaches to ensure that every child’s learning is support in the appropriate way.

Impact

Monitoring and Assessment: Teachers regularly assess capability through observations and looking at completed work. Key objectives to be assessed are taken from the national curriculum to assess key ICT and computing skills each term. Assessing ICT and computing work is an integral part of teaching and learning and central to good practice. It should be process orientated - reviewing the way that techniques and skills are applied purposefully by pupils to demonstrate their understanding of the concepts of ICT and computing. As assessment is part of the learning process it is essential that pupils are closely involved.

Whole School Overview and Progression
Download