Computing

Children have a range of opportunities to develop their digital literacy and, computational thinking and creativity.

We do this by developing their skills in:

  • Computer Science -where pupils are taught about how digital systems work, the principles of computation and how to put this into practice through programming. We do this using programs such as Scratch
  • Information Technology, multimedia and word processing-using programs such as Microsoft Office (Word, Publisher, PowerPoint etc.) and devices such as laptops and iPads to develop everyday skills.
  • Digital media -using computing software and hardware to create videos, music, art etc.
  • Data management -using programs such as Microsoft Excel to create spreadsheets, tables and graphs.
  • Online safety -making sure that the children develop their understanding of the digital world and what they need to do to be safe. We do this both in individual classes and as a whole school.

The following is how the curriculum is broken down into objectives by Key Stage

Key stage 1

Pupils are taught to:

  • understand what algorithms are; how they are implemented as programs on digital devices; and that programs execute by following precise and unambiguous instructions
  • create and debug simple programs
  • use logical reasoning to predict the behaviour of simple programs
  • use technology purposefully to create, organise, store, manipulate and retrieve digital content
  • recognise common usesof information technology beyond school
  • 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 technologies.

Key stage 2

Pupils are taught to:

  • design, write and debug programs that accomplish specific goals, including controlling or simulating physical systems; solve problems by decomposing them into smaller parts
  • use sequence, selection, and repetition in programs; work with variables and various forms of input and output
  • use logical reasoning to explain how some simple algorithms work and to detect and correct errors in algorithms and programs
  • understand computer networks including the internet; how they can provide multiple services, such as the world wide web; and the opportunities they offer for communication and collaboration
  • use search technologies effectively, appreciate how results are selected and ranked, and be discerning in evaluating digital content
  • select, use and combine a variety of software (including internet services) on a range of digital devices to design and create a range of programs, systems and content that   accomplish given goals, including collecting, analysing, evaluating and presenting data and information
  • use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly; recognise acceptable/unacceptable behaviour; identify a range of ways to report concerns about content and contact.

KS2 block teach computing units.