Computing
Intent
Our computing curriculum aims to enable the children to learn about and understand the technological world that they live in, in order to reach their potential in an ever changing world. Through our specific half termly internet safety lessons, as well as the broader computing curriculum, we aim to empower children with a set of values in order to enable them to live effectively and safely within the ever-changing world they find themselves in. The structure and progression within the computing curriculum allows children to build their knowledge, skills, confidence and independence within a curriculum area that is key to their future. The curriculum covers a wide and varied range of computing elements, allowing children to develop their own unique potential as well as also giving them an insight in to computing areas in which they have had limited experience. These areas provide children with rich and vibrant opportunities and link to real-life experiences with a curriculum that is ambitious and progressive for all children and essential in their ability to be a valued, contributing member of society.
Implementation
Our long term computing plan covers the national curriculum objectives and ensures that each year group builds on the previous experience of their learners so there is clear progression. Our children are immersed in a range of communication tools and clear progression in the skills needed to use within these core programs. Internet safety is another focus area which links to our whole school values, encouraging children to focus on the idea of being proud of their behaviour online. Lessons are planned in relation to current trends and issues affecting our children online. Our Teach Computing scheme of work immerses children in a rich mixture of computing related topics in every term to provide the children with varied and stimulating real-life computing experiences. Every child is encouraged to reach their potential through differentiation in terms of support, structure and challenge as well as peer working.
Impact
Progression in computing will be assessed throughout the key stage through the children’s ability to know, apply and understand the matters, skills and processes specified in the relevant programme of study. We assess the children through: Observing children at work during weekly computing sessions.
Questioning the children in relation to their programme of study in order to assess their understanding and comprehension. Assessing the work produced by the children and discussion of their next steps. Peer and self-assessment also play a key role within lessons and allow children to become better critical thinkers and independent learners. The progression in the curriculum ensures children are learning, practicing and consolidating new skills before applying these skills to new challenges.