Computing

Intent

Our Computing curriculum provides children with a high-quality computing education that will equip them with computational thinking skills, provide opportunities to apply computing skills in various digital contexts and enable them to become active participants in the digital world.  We recognise that technology is a part of children’s everyday lives and it is important in the ever-changing world of technology for children to engage in positive experiences as they use technology to express themselves, both as tools for learning and as a means to drive their generation forward into the future .

Through high quality teaching, we will develop the following essential characteristics of technology users:

• To use technology purposefully to create, organise, store, manipulate and retrieve digital content.
• To engage in computational thinking in order to solve computer science problems involving algorithms and networks.
• To engage in positive online experiences as technology is used for children to express themselves, both as a tool for learning and as a means to drive their generation forward into the future.
• For children to understand the advantages and disadvantages associated with online experiences and are aware of measures that can be taken to keep themselves and others safe.
• A genuine interest in the subject and the ability to be able to apply the skills learnt to the ever-evolving technology world we live in.

Implementation

Computing is taught using the NCCE Teaching Computing Scheme, to provide the foundational experiences of computational thinking. We also aim to ensure that computing experiences are integrated into other areas of the curriculum and the basic skills are taught throughout the year through cross curricular work. For example, in art we may research the work of a particular artist. In geography we may use the correct tools to find temperatures in different locations around the globe.

We ensure that our Computing curriculum excites the children to develop their computing skills and for them to further understand how this relates and strengthens their learning across the curriculum. Children have opportunities to see first-hand how the computing skills and knowledge they learn can be used responsibly and successfully across many subjects.

The programmes of study are carefully planned and delivered showing progression, enabling children to develop computing skills and knowledge. Lessons are planned so that children learn the required skills and knowledge but curriculum links to other subject areas enable children to embed the skills that have learnt in a purposeful context. Children have access to a full range of resources to support their learning including laptops, I-pads, Micro-bit kit and a number of apps that are integral for their learning.

Impact

• Children will develop a love of computing learning.
• There will be a clear progression of skills across EYFS, Key Stage 1 and 2 that builds on prior knowledge that can be demonstrated in final unit outcomes that show good or better progress in computing from their starting points.  
• Children will have a good understanding of key computing vocabulary and concepts.
• Opportunities for children to use current resources and gain an understanding in a meaningful context.
• Continued training and support for teachers ensuring they are the experts in the subjects that they teach.
• Our children will be confident using a range of technology and be able to clearly discuss their learning from past and current topics, as well as explain their next steps.
• Our children will understand how to engage with technology in a safe and creative way.