Computing
Intent
At South Wootton Infant School we aim to prepare our children for a rapidly changing world through the use of technology. Through the study of Computing, children develop a wide range of fundamental computing skills, knowledge and understanding that will equip them for the rest of their life. From the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), they learn basic skills including knowing how to operate simple equipment to completing a simple program on a computer. These skills are built upon as they progress throughout the school and by the time they finish Year Two, the children are confidently using a range of skills such as creating and debugging simple programs, using technology to create digital content and identifying/reporting inappropriate online content. We want to model and educate children on how to use technology positively, responsibly and safely.
Implementation
In the Early Years; children will learn about the technologically diverse world through the ‘Understanding of the World’ area of learning. The children’s learning of key computing knowledge and skills is taught through a balance of direct teaching and opportunities in the children’s continuous provision. In Key Stage 1, Computing is planned as an explicit lesson. Teachers follow the Purple Mash scheme of work that breaks the Computing curriculum down into different topics to teach throughout the year. The Purple Mash scheme directly corresponds to the school’s progression of skills document which helps teachers to highlight particular skills and areas children need to focus on.
Impact
- Children will have a greater understanding of how technology makes a difference in all aspects of life - at home, at school and in the workplace
- Children will develop Computing skills that can be thoughtfully applied in a range of different situations, with children developing increasing independence in the choices they make over which technology to use to help them reach the desired outcome.
- As they progress through EYFS and KS1, children will become increasingly confident in the application of their digital skills, becoming increasingly efficient and effective communicators, collaborators and analysts, showing imagination and creativity in their use of ICT in different aspects of their learning and life beyond school.
If you were to walk into a computing lesson at SWIS you would see:
- Computing hardware and software being utilised to enhance the learning outcomes of our children, across the curriculum.
- Children confidently using a variety of technology available to them in school and with little help needed in navigating their way around technology.
- Children sharing their learning with others, explaining the processes they went through to reach the end result.
British Values and Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Learning in Computing:
British Values in Computing
Collaborative work in Computing develops mutual respect for the differing opinions, beliefs and abilities of others. In addition, children develop a respect for the resources used and understand the importance of looking after them. They learn to appreciate the value of similarities and differences and learn to show tolerance. A variety of experiences teaches them to appreciate that all people – and their views – are equally important. Children are encouraged to work in a democratic way, exercising the ‘give and take’ required for successful teamwork, this is particularly true of topics which require children to work in groups to research or to design and create a product. Computing also enables children to appreciate the importance of staying safe online and respecting others.
Social: We highlight ways to stay safe when using the internet and social media. We promote good manners when using digital technologies. We discuss the impact of ICT on the ways people communicate and help pupils express themselves clearly. We encourage collaborative learning through paired and group activities.
Moral: We create an awareness of encouraging respect for and developing a tolerance of other people’s views and opinions. We consider the benefits and potential dangers of the internet. We discuss the moral implications of cyber bullying and the consequences of different courses of actions.
Spiritual: We explore how ideas in computing have inspired them and others. We provide opportunities for children to explore their creativity and imagination when developing digital products. We promote self-esteem through opportunities to present their work to others.
Cultural: We teach children how to be sensible users of technology. We empower pupils to apply their computing skills and knowledge to the wider curriculum. We help children develop an awareness of their audience when communicating in a digital environment.
Pupil Voice
“I like when the animals move” (Reception child using 2simple)