Computing

Intent

We aim to prepare our children for a rapidly changing world through the use of technology at St Mary’s Primary School and to be able to thrive as responsible, independent, confident and digital citizens. Therefore, we want to educate our children on how to use technology safely and positively
We want the use of technology to support learning across the entire curriculum and to ensure that our curriculum is accessible to every child making them digitally literate and to develop their creativity, resilience, problem solving and critical thinking skills
We recognise that technology can allow children to share their learning in creative ways giving them a breath of experience to develop their understanding of themselves as individuals within their community but also as responsible digital citizens

By the end of KS2 we want all the children to be flexible, creative and responsible and independent user of technology, who are able to use to fulfil the task and challenge set by their teachers.

Implementation

We believe that children should be using computers from an early age to help improve their skills when navigating and using devices such as iPads, laptops and Chromebooks. Computing is implemented across all aspects of our school curriculum: Google Classroom is used for online learning and homework; Reading Planet is used to improve children’s reading skills; Times Tables Rock stars is used in Maths during lessons. Lessons are designed to ensure full coverage of expectations set out in the Early Adopters EYFS Curriculum Framework and the National Curriculum, and offer the opportunity for both knowledge and skills progression.

At St Mary’s Primary School, we believe that a clear and effective scheme of work, which provides coverage in line with the National Curriculum is essential to meet the requirements of our children in order for them to thrive. We believe that technology can provide: enhanced collaborative learning opportunities; better engagement of pupils; easier access to rich content; support understanding of new concepts and can support the needs of all our pupils. This is all to ensure that children are being exposed to high-quality lessons focusing on the skills and knowledge required to be successful computational thinkers. For this we have invested in Purple Mash. This ensures that all key areas of the computing curriculum are taught and revisited during a child’s primary school years. This allows our children to build on their learning year after year, building on their vocabulary and to also practice skills where they may not be as confident and likewise, progress their knowledge and skills even further.

We strive to keep children safe online and provide them with the knowledge and tools to do so. We will also empower parents, carers and the wider community with up-to-date information regarding keeping children safe online. We recognise the unique contribution that e-learning makes to the motivation and effectiveness of children in our school and the role that the school has in preparing pupils for their future by improving their knowledge and understanding of how technology is an aid to learning.

Early Years

In the Foundation Stage, children will be given the opportunity to access play-based experience of ICT in a range of context such as iPads, Bee-Bots, interactive whiteboards, cameras and battery-operated toys, metal detectors, control remotely operated toys including outdoor play. ICT will be used to support children learning in all areas of the curriculum to develop their confidence, control and communication skills.

Key Stage 1

During Key Stage 1, children will begin to develop their use of programs and apps to communicate, understand and present their learning in different subjects. They will be able to write and test simple programs and know how to communicate safely and respectfully online, keeping personal information private.

Key Stage 2

During Key Stage 2, children will learn to use a wide range of apps and programs to accomplish specific goals. Through engaging tasks and challenges, children will develop a deep understanding of computer science, knowing how to develop and create their own programs for a range of purposes. They will also develop their digital literacy, showing they know how to use technology respectfully and safely.

Impact

Children will be confident users of technology, able to use it to accomplish a wide variety of goals, both at home and in school
Children will have a secure and comprehensive knowledge of the implications of technology and digital systems. This is important in a society where technologies and trends are rapidly evolving
Children will be able to apply the British values of democracy, tolerance, mutual respect, rule of law and liberty when using digital systems.

Progression and Skills Map

Computing Policy

Be SMART online (Year 6 Pupils’ voices)