Computing

Our Intent

Technology is changing the lives of everyone. At Heather Garth we want our pupils to be masters of technology and not slaves to it. Technology is everywhere, it is and will play a pivotal part in students’ lives forever. Therefore, at Heather Garth, we want to modal and educate our pupils on how to use technology positively, responsibility and safely. By the time the children leave Heather Garth Primary School, children will have gained key knowledge and skills in five main areas of the computing curriculum: Computer Science (Coding & Programming), Data Handling, Multimedia, Technology in our Lives & E-Safety.

We believe computing is a crucial part of children’s learning, as technology is now essential to navigating our present world and innovating for the future. Our curriculum of work for computing is robust and rigorously sequenced, that breaks learning into small, sequential steps that become progressively more complex and challenging over time. It ensures that pupils meet the end of Key Stage attainment targets outlined in the National Curriculum. Across a rich range of units, children master content related to computer science, such as writing algorithms, using logical reasoning to explain how algorithms work and debugging algorithms that do not meet the intended purpose. Children also learn content related to information technology such as how to use search technologies effectively, how to navigate information online and how to collect, evaluate and present data and information. Within digital literacy learning, we ensure that children are equipped with the tools to stay safe online.

Implementation

Within the academic year, children study computing in blocks, shown in the long-term plan. This shows a balance of Computer Science (Coding & Programming), Data Handling, Multimedia, Technology in our Lives & E-Safety. The children will have experiences of all these throughout each year group, which progress from one year to the next. Objectives are carefully sequenced so prior knowledge and concepts are built upon to develop their computational thinking. Each unit has been adapted and modified from a variety of sources such as; Kapow, Teach Computing, Lego Robotics and Micro:bit, to suit the needs of our children and ensure it is as hands on as possible.

As well as the benefits of computing, we are also aware of the risks. Computing is taught weekly, in our high-quality computer suite, where our children have the use of their own computer. The children also have access to shared sets of iPads and laptops, Lego Robotics and Micro:bits.

Impact

We encourage our children to enjoy and value the curriculum we deliver. Finding the right balance with technology is key to an effective education and a healthy life-style. The quality of children’s’ learning is evident on the Shared Drive and in computing books, where they can refer to it.

Our children will be able to share their knowledge of how to be a responsible user of technology through discussion when questioned. They will be prepared for the next stage in their lives, knowing how to be a responsible user of technology in the wider world and most importantly, know where to seek support. Confidence in this subject will also mean that the children are able to be more independent and competent in life skills such as problem solving and logical thinking.

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