Computing
A high-quality computing education equips pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Computing has deep links with mathematics, science, and design and technology, and provides insights into both natural and artificial systems. 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. Building on this knowledge and understanding, pupils are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Computing also ensures that pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through, information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.
Computing Curriculum
Please click on the picture link to find out more about how we teach our curriculum at St Thomas'.
Intent
At St Thomas’ Leesfield, we want all of our children to be able to achieve their full potential and Computing is a significant part of our children’s daily life. We believe that children should be at the forefront of this new technology, developing their attitudes, skills and knowledge (ASK) to become competent when using computers.
As computers are now such an integral part of the world today, we want our children to be exposed to a wealth of learning opportunities and transferrable skills explicitly within the Computing curriculum and across other curriculum subjects. It is our intent to ensure that all children keep up with these changes and developments but also through the study of Computing, children will be able to develop a wide range of fundamental skills, knowledge, understanding and the ability to keep themselves safe, especially online, that will equip them for a successful future. During Computing lessons, we use the Word Aware Programme to ensure that all pupils are familiar with relevant subject specific vocabulary.
Implementation
All our children take part in a variety of Computing lessons. In Early Years the children are exposed to the understanding of internet safety as they explore the world around them and how technology is an everyday part of their learning and understanding of the world. The children have the opportunity to develop their computer skills through continuous provision and discreet computing lessons.
In Key Stage 1, the children will learn to understand what algorithms are; how they are implemented as programmes on digital devices; and that programmes execute by following precise and unambiguous instructions. They will be taught to create and debug simple programmes and use logical reasoning to predict the behaviour of simple programmes. They will be shown how to use a range of technology purposefully to create, organise, store, manipulate and retrieve digital content as well as recognise common uses of information technology beyond school. They will be also be taught to use technology safely and respectfully, keeping personal information private; identify where to go for help and support when they have concerns about content or contact on the internet or other online platforms. Each of these skills will be taught through our exciting topic-based curriculum.
In Key Stage 2 the children will design, write and debug programmes that accomplish specific goals, including controlling or simulating physical systems; solve problems by decomposing them into smaller parts. They will use sequence, selection, and repetition in programmes, use logical reasoning to explain how some simple algorithms work and correct errors in algorithms and programmes. Children will be taught to understand computer networks, including the internet, and the opportunities they offer for communication and collaboration. They will use search technologies effectively, learn to appreciate how results are selected and ranked, and be discerning in evaluating digital content. Children will be taught to select, use and combine a variety of software (including internet services) on a range of digital devices to create a range of programmes, systems and content that accomplish given goals. They will use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly; recognise acceptable/unacceptable behaviour; identify a range of ways to report concerns about content and contact. At St Thomas’ Leesfield, we are continuously updating our computing equipment to enable all children to have the most up to date technology. We use a variety of programmes to teach our children including Scratch (coding) and Purple Mash.
Impact
Computing is changing the lives of everyone. Through teaching Computing, we equip children to participate in a rapidly changing world where work and leisure activities are increasingly transformed by technology. This is not solely the skills and knowledge to use technology effectively and for their own benefit, but more importantly – safely. It is important that children understand the consequences of using the internet and how to keep themselves safe in our digital world. Computing skills are a major factor in enabling children to be confident, creative and independent learners, our curriculum will ensure that all children are ready for the next part of their education.
Our Computing Learning Journey
Please select the document below.
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Learning Journey - Computing - Reception - Year 6 | [pdf 278KB] |
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The National Curriculum Computing
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The National Curriculum KS1 and KS2 Computing Programme |
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Teaching Online Safety in Schools |
Computing Learning Resources
Please use the links below to access our learning resources.