Computing
Intent
Through our computing curriculum we aim to equip our pupils with the life skills that will enable them to embrace and utilise new technology in a socially responsible and safe manner. We want children to become independent users of computing technologies, gaining confidence and enjoyment of their activities. We want the use of technology to support learning across the entire curriculum. Not only do we want pupils to be digitally literate and competent end-users of technology, but through our computing lessons we want them to develop creativity, resilience, problem-solving and critical thinking skills. We want our pupils to have a breadth of experience to develop their understanding of themselves as individuals within their community, but also as members of a wider global community and as responsible digital citizens.
Implementation
The Computing curriculum at RSP is taught through discrete lessons, following the Teach Computing scheme of work. A dedicated scheme was implemented to ensure progression of the curriculum as pupils move through school, and to support staff in developing the appropriate skills and vocabulary to deliver digital literacy in line with the 2014 National Curriculum objectives. Where appropriate, meaningful links are made between the computing curriculum and other curriculum areas to exploit opportunities to develop and demonstrate skills in a variety of ways.
The teaching of computing skills starts in EYFS where children are encouraged to engage with touch screens and laptops to play and explore, whilst also developing fine motor skill control using mice/mouse pads. The school has a dedicated ICT suite, within which each class has at least one timetabled lesson per week. Additionally, each key stage has a bank of 16 laptops that are accessible for all lessons. All laptops are configured to allow access to the school network and internet, which is monitored and restricted using appropriate controls to safeguard usage in school.
Impact
Pupils will leave Rawdon St Peter’s School with the confidence to explore computing further and engage in use of technology in their lives in a safe manner. They will be digitally literate so as to understand the many opportunities that computing can offer, as well as have an awareness of the consequences of inappropriate use and how to keep themselves and others safe online.
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.
They will be equipped, not only with the skills and knowledge to use technology effectively and for their own benefit, but more importantly – safely.