Computing is an essential part of everyday life and will continue to evolve in, as yet, unknown ways. Our pupils, therefore, need the ability and the confidence to adapt to new technological opportunities as they arise. It is important that we provide all our pupils with the skills, knowledge and attitude that will prepare them for the challenge of our rapidly changing and increasingly connected world.

Computing - Implementation

We integrate technology into all areas of school life in order to enhance and extend our pupils’ learning. In our computing curriculum we plan regular opportunities to use technology in meaningful contexts within and across other subject areas. For example, by teaching and practising internet research skills whilst investigating a history topic and by developing problem solving skills whilst evaluating a computer game.

Our Computing curriculum covers three distinct but related stands:

Digital Literacy is at the heart of our computing curriculum. It ensures that pupils are able to use technology safely and responsibly to express themselves, communicate with others and develop their ideas. We recognise that the digital world is constantly changing so we regularly update and review our curriculum to ensure we teach appropriate skills and knowledge that the pupils can readily apply across to situations they will encounter in a wide range of online platforms.

Information Technology is about using technology. Not just computers, but a range of equipment such as laptops, iPads, data loggers and electrical circuits. We teach the skills required for practical purposes, such as using search technology, collecting and presenting information, manipulating data and creating videos or simple computer games.

Computer Science teaches how digital systems work, the principles of computational thinking and how to use programming software. Building on this knowledge and understanding, pupils develop the skills required to create computer games that include a range of content with increasing complexity. Pupils are taught to explore and evaluate the effectiveness of information technology and solve problems analytically.