Computing

Our computing curriculum follows the ‘Teach Computing’ scheme which is split into units: computing systems and networks (IT around us); creating media; data and information; and programming. Lessons take place in the classrooms using laptops and other equipment as necessary. The units for Key Stage 1  (Year 1 and 2) are based on a spiral curriculum. This means that pupils revisit each theme through a new unit that consolidates and builds on prior learning within that theme. This ‘revisiting’ curriculum design reduces the amount of knowledge lost through forgetting. Cross curricular links are made using the equipment in other subjects where appropriate.

Our Reception children are given opportunities to use technology to solve problems and produce creative outcomes, in an age and stage appropriate way. Our children take part in a variety of tasks with digital devices, such as moving a Bee Bot around a classroom, which ensures they are already familiar with the device before being asked to undertake tasks related to our Key Stage 1  computing curriculum, such as writing and testing a simple program.

Individual lessons are planned to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with SEND, to ensure the curriculum is fully accessible.

Detailed medium-term plans are provided by the ‘Teach Computing’ scheme (www.teachcomputing.org/primary-teachers) and learning tasks are designed to enable progress to take place across Year 1 and Year 2. Year R use our ‘Computing: Progression of skills’ document to ensure the development of skills/knowledge across year groups.

Our Progression of skills documents can be viewed here

Our aim is that children will:

·       be able to comprehend, design, create, and evaluate algorithms

·       understand how networks can be used to retrieve and share information, and       how they come with associated risks

·       understand what a computer is, and how its constituent parts function together as a whole

·       select and create a range of media including text, images, sounds, and video

·       understand how data is stored, organised, and used to represent real-world artefacts and scenarios

·       understand the activities involved in planning, creating, and evaluating computing artefacts

·       use software tools to support computing work

·       understand how individuals, systems, and society interact with computer systems

·       create software to allow computers to solve problems

·       understand risks when using technology, and how to protect individuals and systems

‘Teach Computing’ includes built in assessment for each lesson. Our ‘Progression of Skills: Computing’ document is used alongside this to both assess each child and ensure there is progression across all year groups.