Computing

Intent

Our children are living in a world surrounded by devices, and technology is changing the lives of everyone. Computing within schools can therefore provide a wealth of learning opportunities and transferrable skills within the Computing lessons and across other curriculum subjects. Through the study of Computing, children will be able to develop a wide range of fundamental skills, knowledge and understanding that will prepare them for KS2 and equip them for the rest of their lives. Children must be taught in the art form of ‘Computational Thinking’ in order to provide them with essential knowledge that will enable them to participate effectively and safely in the  digital world beyond our gates.

Implementation

At Mrs. Blands’ our computing curriculum is taught throughout EYFS and Key Stage 1, following our computing progression of skills.

In Early Years, computing is planned and taught through adult directed teaching as well as being part of enhanced and continuous provision. Children learn how to use a variety of apps on our iPads and to log in to Purple Mash. They learn to follow and give instructions using Bee-Bots. They begin to get familiar with using a keyboard, typing their names and playing games on the computer using the keyboard. They have frequent e-safety lessons, which are taught through stories and songs to make the key messages memorable.

 In Key Stage 1 we deliver the Computing National Curriculum through the Teach Computing scheme of learning. Computing is organised into the three core strands outlined in the National Curriculum: computational thinking, digital literacy and information technology.

Computational thinking, or computer science, teaches children how to create and debug simple programs and introduces the language of computer science. In year One this is taught using Bee-Bots, in year 2 the children progress to using Scratch.

Digital literacy teaches the children the ability to creatively and critically use digital tools and technology to express, research, communicate, collaborate and share in a safe way. We teach online safety as an explicit part of our curriculum through computing and PSHE and use the resources of Project Evolve to ensure we are delivering a consistent message.  

Information technology is taught both discreetly, and used to enhance other areas of the curriculum. Our children use technology purposefully to create, organise, store, manipulate, retrieve and send digital content. They learn to use the Internet to search for information, a keyboard to type text and modify their work. Children in Key stage on use both iPads and Chromebooks to support their learning. 

 

 

Impact

With the implementation of our computing curriculum, children at Mrs. Blands’ will be digitally literate and able to join the rest of the world on its digital platform. They will be equipped to use technology safely and effectively. The biggest impact we want on our children is that they understand the consequences of using the Internet and that they are aware of how to keep themselves safe online.

Our advice and guidance on E-Safety at Mrs Bland's School can be found by clicking on this link

You can view our long term overview for Computing by clicking here

Ms Nagle

Computing Lead