Computing
The Teaching of Computing
We recognise that using computers skilfully, and often creatively, is vital to access and change the world in the 21st century. By developing early computational thinking and digital literacy, our children will be equipped for higher levels of learning. Thus, they will be ready to become the managers, designers and engineers of the future.
We deliver the Primary National Curriculum for Computing in KS1 and KS2 and we have identified objectives from the EYFS Statutory Framework that are prerequisites for this learning. We have ensured a progressive coverage for all year groups by working with a NCCE Primary Computing SME advisor to support us in writing a curriculum that meets the needs of our mixed age classes; this is delivered mainly using the Teach Computing scheme. This supports teacher confidence and subject knowledge but also provides the children with high quality learning opportunities. Our curriculum allows the children to revisit ideas several times during their time with us; this allows them to develop a deep understanding of the main ideas of Computing. The progression map below shows the knowledge and skills that we expect children to leave Braithwaite CE School with, and how this will support them in having a solid grounding on which to be able to take on the KS3 Computing curriculum.
Keeping children safe and teaching them how to keep themselves safe is our priority. We use the award winning Project Evolve materials to teach children how to stay safe in a digital world. Units address the following areas: self-image and identity; online relationships; online reputation; online bullying; managing online information; health, well-being and lifestyles; privacy and security; and copyright and ownership.
The long term plan below maps out the coverage and teaching over a 2 year cycle for the whole school. Computing is taught discretely during a fortnightly timetabled slot, but technology is used to support learning across the curriculum in the form of laptops, tablets and cameras.
