Intent

 

Computing at The Whitchurch CE Federation intends to develop ‘thinkers of the future’ through a modern, ambitious, and relevant education in computing. We want to equip pupils to use computational thinking and creativity that will enable them to become active participants in the digital world. It is important to us that the children understand how to use the ever-changing technology to express themselves, as tools for learning and to drive their generation forward into the future.

 Whilst ensuring they understand the advantages and disadvantages associated with online experiences, we want children to develop as respectful, responsible, and confident users of technology, aware of measures that can be taken to keep themselves and others safe online.

Our aim is to provide a computing curriculum that is designed to balance acquiring a broad and deep knowledge alongside opportunities to apply skills in various digital contexts. Beyond teaching computing discreetly, we will give pupils the opportunity to apply and develop what they have learnt across wider learning in the curriculum.

 

Implementation

Our scheme of work for Computing is adapted from the ‘Teach Computing’ Curriculum and covers all aspects of the National Curriculum. This scheme was chosen as it has been created by subject experts and based on the latest pedagogical research. It provides an innovative progression framework where computing content (concepts, knowledge, skills, and objectives) has been organised into interconnected networks called learning graphs.

 

The curriculum aims to equip young people with the knowledge, skills and understanding they need to thrive in the digital world of today and the future. The curriculum can be broken down into 3 strands: computer science, information technology and digital literacy, with the aims of the curriculum reflecting this distinction.

 

The national curriculum for computing aims to ensure all pupils:

• can understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms, and data representation (Computer science)

• can analyse problems in computational terms, and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs to solve such problems (Computer science)

• can evaluate and apply information technology, including new or unfamiliar technologies, analytically to solve problems (Information technology)

• are responsible, competent, confident, and creative users of information and communication technology. (Digital literacy)

 

 

Resources

 

Our classrooms are well equipped with every Key Stage 2 class having a 1:1 device. We currently deploy iPads to every pupil and these are used to build on learning to access the broader curriculum. Teachers have access to a class laptop and iPad. All iPads and computers around the school are networked and have Internet access. We keep resources for ICT and computing, including software, in a central store.

 

iPads

We aim to create a safe and supportive environment, where all can feel empowered to independently develop their own skills and knowledge, taking risks where necessary in order to raise aspirations.

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We have identified technology as a key tool to enhance learning and support in unlocking our children’s potential. 

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The use of iPads and technology allows all learners at Whitchurch to stay connected, collaborate with others and get creative in their learning journey.

 

KEY APPS:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assessment and Recording

 

Teachers regularly assess capability through observations and looking at completed work. Formative assessment is carried out daily following tasks and activities.

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Teachers create a half-termly journal to assess children's work over time. The journal includes the key objectives from the national curriculum, key questions and vocabulary. Every half term children complete the journal where they share what they have achieved in each lesson by writing, typing, using voice notes or taking photos and videos. At the end of the half term children upload their journal to Showbie where teachers make a summary judgement of the work for each pupil as to whether they have yet to obtain, obtained or exceeded the expectations of the unit.

 

Security

 

• The ICT and computing technician /coordinator are responsible for regularly updating anti-virus software.

• Children sign the iPad User Contract form when they enter the school in September.

• Use of ICT and computing will be in line with the school’s ‘acceptable use policy’. All staff must sign a copy of the schools policy annually.

• Children sign a ‘Responsible internet access and ICT use for pupils’ form when they enter the school in Year 1.   

• Parents will be made aware of the ‘acceptable use policy’ at school entry.

• All pupils and parents will be aware of the school rules for responsible use of ICT and computing and the internet and will understand the consequence of any misuse.

• The agreed rules for safe and responsible use of ICT and computing and the internet will be displayed in all ICT and computing areas.

• The rules of online safety are displayed where any child can access the internet. If a child breaks these rules, they will be denied internet access for a period of time after which the situation will be reviewed.