Computing

 

Curriculum Cycle A 2022 - 2023 Curriculum Cycle B 2023 - 2024

 

Curriculum Statement

Intent

At Chaddleworth St. Andrew’s and Shefford C of E Federated Schools we have designed the Computing curriculum to provide the children with the knowledge and skills to be digital confident. We understand the immense value that Technology plays not only in supporting the Computing and wider curriculum but in the overall day-to-day life of the school. We aim to fulfill the National Curriculum for Computing whilst also providing enhanced collaborative learning opportunities and to inspire pupils’ curiosity. We aim to provide the children opportunities to develop computing skills throughout a broad and balanced curriculum, with the intention of increasing every child’s cultural capital and understanding of the world around them. There are three aspects of the computing curriculum: Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy.

We aim to ensure that all pupils:

  • Can access a relevant, challenging and enjoyable curriculum for computing.
  • Meet the requirements of the National Curriculum programmes of study for computing.
  • Become responsible, respectful and competent users of data, information and communication technology.
  • Use computing as a tool to enhance learning throughout the curriculum.
  • Can evaluate the benefits and pitfalls of computing and technology and its impact on society.
  • Have the confidence and capability to use computing throughout their later life.
  • Have the confidence to use computing and technology safely and responsibly.

 

Implementation

We teach the National Curriculum, supported by a clear skills and knowledge progression. Our Computing progression is broken down into three strands that make up the Computing curriculum. These are Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy. Computer Science underlines the knowledge and skills relating to programming, coding, algorithms and computational thinking. Information Technology underlines the knowledge and skills relating to communication, multimedia, data representation and handling. Digital Literacy underlines the knowledge and skills relating to online safety and technology uses.

Computing is taught in blocks throughout the year, linked to overall whole school themes in a two-year cycle due to mixed age classes so that children can achieve depth in their learning. If during the two-year cycle, repetition of a unit occurs, it does not mean pupils are repeating an activity, it is an opportunity for pupils to build on established skills whilst also embedding previous concepts.  

At the beginning of each theme, children are able to convey what they know already and what they would like to find out. Children are encouraged to explore and ask questions. Units will be engaging covering a range of computing components such as coding, spreadsheets, internet and email, databases, communications networks, typing, animation and online safety. We have a wide range of resources to support our computing teaching including, iPads, laptops, bee-bots, and cameras. Pupils may use laptops or iPads independently, in pairs, alongside a TA or in a group with the teacher. Teachers and pupils are also aware of the importance of health and safety and pupils are supervised when using technology and accessing the internet and pupils will be given clear objectives for internet use.

 

Impact

As well as meeting the National Curriculum requirements for each stage, at Chaddleworth St. Andrew’s and Shefford C of E Federated Schools we want children to ask pertinent and relevant questions and feel confident to safely explore and investigate the use of computing and have a curiosity to learn and develop their understanding. We want to ensure that children have the ability to consistently support, evaluate and challenge their own and others understanding and skills and to become confident and responsible members an online connected community.