Computing
Purpose of study
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.
Aims
Our curriculum for Computing aims to ensure that all pupils:
- Can understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation.
- Can analyse problems in computational terms, and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs in order to solve such problems.
- Can evaluate and apply information technology, including new or unfamiliar technologies, analytically to solve problems.
- Are responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information and communication technology.
The Primary Computing Program of Study is divided into three areas;
- Computer Science (CS)
- Information Technology (IT)
- Digital Literacy (DL) which includes online safety
At Key Stage 1 pupils are taught to: | At Key Stage 2 pupils are taught to: | |
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CS |
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IT |
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DL |
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We teach Computing using the Purple Mash Computing scheme. You can download our year group planning below.
Each classroom has a Clevertouch interactive board. We use Dell 2-in-1 devices throughout the academy to access a wide range of Office 365 applications. In Years 4-6 each child has their own device to work on throughout the day. Children in KS1 and Year 3 have access to a set of laptops. We also have two class sets of iPads.
Assessment
Teachers assess children's understanding and skills at the end of each unit taught. Children are also assessed using the Naace "Computing in the National Curriculum: A guide for primary teachers". Using this grid it is possible that children could be working at a different 'stage' for each area of the Computing Curriculum (available to download)