computing
what we say about computing at dean bank primary school
Mia – “I like using the different programs.”
Jack – “Computing lessons are fun because we can use the laptops and tablets.”
Chloe – “I really like using the Beebots.”
We know that ICT and computing are essential skills that all our children must have as the pace of technological change constantly increases. We want our children to be equipped with transferable ICT and computing skills when they leave Dean Bank that they will be able to use and apply in a range of subject areas.
intent
At Dean Bank Primary and Nursery School, we believe a high-quality computing education equips all children with the skills needed to understand the world around them and to use technology to improve their lives. Computing has strong links to a variety of other subjects such as mathematics, science, design and technology and therefore we believe that it should be utilized to support developing skills across the curriculum. We strive to provide a relevant, progressive and enjoyable curriculum for all pupils, as well as using it for a tool to enhance learning throughout the wider curriculum.
Computing as a stand-alone subject has a number of key components, each of which we aim to teach and fully instill the value of amongst our pupils. These are:
- Computer Science – Pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming.
- Information Technology – Pupils are equipped to purposefully create programs, systems and a range of content in order to develop products and solutions. They will be able to collect, analyse, evaluate and present data and information.
- Digital Literacy – Pupils are taught to use, access and express oneself through digital technology, including a critical understanding of technology’s impact on the individual and society, at a level suitable for the future and as active participants in a digital world.
Through Purple Mash, we have ensured that we have created a tailored curriculum that ensures children are able to build their knowledge and skills progressively in all areas of the computing curriculum and ensure they are exposed to developments in technology such as the use of A.I. We also firmly believe the importance of delivering a high-quality E-Safety curriculum which is embedded throughout the computing curriculum. As technology develops, so does the need for a better understanding of how to use it in a responsible manner and ensure the safety of all pupils when using it.#
IMPLEMENTATION
Within computing, the long-term plan has been created in order to tailor what is offered by Purple Mash. Staff are expected to follow the planning provided by Purple Mash. They should familiarise themselves thoroughly with lesson content and activities.
Computing Lessons
Computing lessons at Dean Bank consist of learning and recapping new vocabulary, followed by new learning material and a series of activities to implement new learning.
| Vocabulary | New learning material | Activities related to learning | Reflection |
|
Recap of previously learnt vocabulary. And introducing new vocabulary. |
Children taught new learning material with modelling. |
Children implement learning through a series of different challenges/activities. |
Children reflect on learning and vocabulary taught in lesson. |
Within computing, the long-term plan has been created in order to tailor what is offered by Purple Mash. Staff are expected to follow the planning provided by Purple Mash. They should familiarise themselves thoroughly with lesson content and activities.
Computing in EYFS
Computing in EYFS is designed so that it provides children with the opportunities to develop an understanding of cause and effect improve their problem-solving skills. Children will have the opportunity to engage with a range of technology, both through adult-led activities and the wider provision. Technology is also used to support the development of key literacy skills and the opportunities provided in EYFS will provide children with the foundations required for computing in key stage one.
iMPACT
Teachers will be using formative assessment continually within their teaching and using this to support their teaching and support children to develop the knowledge and skills appropriate. Staff will record a student’s progress against the relevant knowledge and skills objectives for the unit using the online ‘Insight’ tracking system. Children will be judged as working towards age-related expectations or working at age-related expectations based on the number of objectives achieved at the given assessment point.
In EYFS, teachers will use the setting’s assessment system to track progress against the prime and specific areas but will also record evidence of children developing key skills and knowledge through the use of seesaw.