Computing
Intent
Through our computing curriculum we follow the principle that prior knowledge is one of the most influential factors of learning. With this in mind, we intend to develop pupils learning in computing by allowing them to build upon prior learning whilst acquiring new knowledge to ensure progress. We want to prepare pupils to live safely in an increasingly digital society and for the challenges posed by digital systems in a modern society. Our aim is for our children to know more, remember more and understand more so that they leave our school as confident, creative and independent computer users with the necessary skills for the next stage in their education. As children move through school they will learn how to draw upon and use taught skills in a variety of ways so that they can become accomplished at using technology to solve problems, express themselves and develop their own ideas; in order that they can thrive in this ever developing arena in the future.
Implementation
Our computing curriculum covers 8 areas of pedagogy to ensure breadth and depth of the National Curriculum in Computing;
- Algorithms
- Programming
- Physical Computing
- Networks
- Computer Systems
- Digital Citizenship
- Multimedia Computing
- Data, Information and Modelling
Each computing session is accessible to all and maximises the development of every child’s ability and academic achievement in the skills of Computing. Our approach to the curriculum results in fun, engaging, and high-quality computing lessons where all children learn. The children will leave equipped, not only with the skills and knowledge to use technology effectively and for their own benefit, but importantly – to use technology safely. Each session incorporates a variety of approaches to ensure maximum inclusivity for all. These include, differentiated task boards to empower children with a 'can-do' mindset. Key word flash cards are used to help pupils learn terminology within each unit and to act as reminders/aids. Pale blue backgrounds that are uncluttered and use a dyslexia friendly font are used in all lessons together with visiual symbols to help children with task transition and ensure they know what's expected of them. Finally, lesson checklists are used to aid with processing and to help focus the children's learning.
A core thread of progressive e-safety learning and digital citizenship runs both parallel to the weekly curriculum but also on stand alone days throughout the school year. It is delivered to each year group from Reception to Year 6 building on learning that has been undertaken and developing to align with current and national initiaves. This is key to children's personal development in our technological world.
To aid in the implemetation of our school computing curriculum, we have a variety of hardwear available to each class, these include;
- an interactive board
- classroom visualiser
- access to a set of IPads
- a class set of laptops
Computing in the Early Years
Computing in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is integrated not as a standalone subject, but as a part of the holistic learning experience for children aged 0-5 years. Computing also supports communication and language development as children learn to follow and give instructions, and express their experiences with technology. At St. Joseph's, we believe that it is important that these interactions are age-appropriate, guided by adults, and balanced with a range of non-screen activities that promote physical activity and social interaction. Our primary goal in relation to Computing is to utilise technology as a means to enhance learning, recording and creative expression, not as an end point in itself. By incorporating these computing skills within EYFS as we do for the rest of the school, we lay the groundwork for building essential digital literacy skills appropriate for the modern era as children move throughout each year group; whilst also ensuring our children learn how to use technology safely and responsibly.
At St Joseph's the integration of technology into the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum significantly enhances the teaching and learning experience across the 7 areas of learning. The use of digital tools, such as interactive storybooks and multimedia resources, brings storytelling to life, captivating young minds and fostering a deeper engagement with narratives and characters. This interactive approach not only enriches the storytelling experience but also aids in the development of listening and comprehension skills. Additionally, the school employs a variety of specialist apps and online tools specifically designed for early education. These resources play a crucial role in advancing learning
in key areas such as Literacy, Phonics, and Mathematics. Through engaging and age appropriate digital content, children are able to grasp fundamental concepts in a fun and interactive manner.
Furthermore, the use of digital devices like BeeBots, iPads, classroom visualisers and interactive boards is a testament to the school's commitment to nurturing critical thinking and independence among its pupils. These tools provide hands-on learning experiences that encourage problemsolving, creativity, and autonomous learning within directed tasks and child led activities. The use of such technology in the Reception class exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to early childhood education, where technology and its safe and appropriate use, is seamlessly woven into the fabric of teaching and learning.
Impact
We encourage our children to enjoy and value the curriculum we deliver. We want learners to become more confident in their computing abilities and to discuss, reflect and appreciate the impact computing has on their learning, development and well being. Finding the right balance with technology is key to an effective education and a healthy life-style. 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. The way pupils showcase, share, celebrate and publish their work will best show the impact of our curriculum. We also look for evidence through reviewing pupil’s knowledge and skills digitally through tools like Google Drive and observing learning regularly. Progress of our computing curriculum is demonstrated through outcomes and the record of coverage in the process of achieving these outcomes. As children become more confident in their abilities in Computing, they will become more independent and key life skills such as problem-solving, logical thinking and self-evaluation will become second nature.