The intent of the computing curriculum

At Selling C of E Primary School we believe Computing should help children to become effective, resilient and curious learners by delivering a curriculum that recognises the importance of preparing for their future life, using information technologies thoughtfully, responsibly and safely in order to acquire and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science.

The intent of our Computing curriculum is to deliver learning opportunities for children that are accessible to all and maximise the outcomes for every child so that they know more, remember more and understand more. Application of this will result in:

• To find, explore, analyse, exchange and present information with confidence, creativity and independence.
• To understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science: abstraction, logic, algorithms, data representation and practical experience of solving computational problems using code.
• Be equipped to be a discerning and safe user of technology to ensure children live safely in an increasingly digital social environment.
• Develop an enthusiasm and enjoyment of using information technology to evaluate, analyse and apply digital knowledge and skills to solving new and unfamiliar problems.

 Implementation

Children in all classes have controlled, filtered internet access over a wireless network. We have a wide range of software and we aim to regularly upgrade computer equipment. 

The main part of our computer teaching takes place in the classrooms using laptops or in the computer suite; the children save their own work and manage their own desktop as part of the learning process.

As a school we use The Purple Mash scheme of work, focusing on Digital Literacy, Information Technology and Computer Science. To help ensure children have the opportunity to develop a wide range of skills, experiences and competencies with technology, the National Curriculum has been broken down into key areas, with the core principles permeating through each area.

• Algorithms and Programming
• Information Technology
• Digital Literacy

The coverage of each area will vary year group by year group, with some areas being covered primarily in KS1 and others primarily in KS2. The emphasis on Programming increases as children move through Selling School.

It is important that technology is used as a day-day element of school life and across all subject areas, therefore if opportunities to use ICT arise which do not fall within the curriculum for each year group they should be taken advantage of.

We teach Online Safety and in addition, have yearly awareness days, so that the children know what to do if they are bullied online or come across content that is upsetting.

Each classroom's Interactive White Board has controlled internet access.