Computing

The National Curriculum identifies that children need a high-quality computing education equipping 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 where pupils are taught the principles of computational thinking. They learn how to put this knowledge to use when writing simple computer programs or controlling robots through simple coding and programming exercises. They learn how digital systems such as the Internet, computer networks and email work where 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 as well as access a range of content. Pupils are equipped to use information technology by working with various software programs; operating a variety of computer hardware types such as laptops and Android devices and accessing a range of digital content both off and online.

Computing also ensures that pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through, information and communication technology. Pupils are taught to become digitally literate. They learn day-to-day computer use such as logging in, password security and how to use the internet accurately and in a discerning manner. They will learn the principles of Digital Safety; how to communicate and collaborate safely when online and be good digital citizens.

In order to ensure progression of knowledge and skills, we follow the Kapow scheme for computing. This is planned with mixed aged classes in mind and is adapted in content to our school. The progression grids are available to view at school as the documents cannot be published on other websites.