Computing

Curriculum Intent:

Computing is an essential part of the national curriculum. Computing is an integral part of modern day life and therefore provides a wealth of learning opportunities, explicitly within computing and also across other curriculum subjects. Through the study of computing, children are able to develop a wide range of fundamental skills, knowledge and understanding that they will need for the rest of their lives. Computers have become a part of everyday life. For most of us, technology is essential to our daily lives, at home and at work. ‘Computational Thinking’ is a skill children must be taught in order to provide them with essential knowledge and skills that will enable them to participate effectively in the digital world.

Curriculum Implementation:

The new national curriculum defines three clear aspects of computing curriculum: Computer Science (CS), Information Technology (IT) and Digital Literacy (DL). Children will be given the opportunity to develop their knowledge and understanding in each area from the Foundation Stage to Year 2.

In 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 uses of 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.

Computing is taught within weekly lessons as we believe regular practice is key to developing digital literacy.

Currently most of the computing curriculum is taught through purple mash.
We intend to create a bespoke scheme of work to cover the computing curriculum across key stage 1. (Linked to current topics where applicable)
The school has a computing suite with 15 desktop computers and children also have access to computers in the classrooms, ensuring that children can use computers for a range of purposes and that it is used across the wider curriculum, as well as in discrete computing lessons. Every classroom has a desktop computer linked to an interactive whiteboard. In early years the children have access to a smart table and also 3 Samsung tablets.

Curriculum Impact:

After the implementation of this robust computing curriculum, children at Killamarsh Infant and Nursery School will be digitally literate and able to join the rest of the world on its digital platform. They will be equipped, not only with the skills and knowledge to use technology effectively and for their own benefit, but more importantly – safely.

We encourage our children to value and enjoy the curriculum we deliver. We want learners to discuss, reflect and appreciate the impact that computing has on their learning, development and well-being. Finding the right balance with technology is key to an effective education and a healthy lifestyle. We feel the way we implement computing helps children realise the need for the right balance and one they can continue to build on in their next stage of education and beyond. We encourage regular discussions between staff and pupils to best embed and understand this.