Computer Science

Intent

Technology is changing the lives of everyone. At Heather Garth we want our pupils to be masters of technology and not slaves to it. Technology is everywhere, it is and will play a pivotal part in students’ lives forever. Therefore, at Heather Garth, we want to modal and educate our pupils on how to use technology positively, responsibility and safely.

By the time they leave Heather Garth Primary School, children will have gained key knowledge and skills in five main areas of the computing curriculum: Computer Science (Coding & Programming), Data Handling, Multimedia, Technology in our Lives & E-Safety.

To support teachers in the delivery of the Computing curriculum, we use programs such as PurpleMash, Scratch, and a variety of Microsoft software.

Where appropriate, cross-curricular links are made to enhance and embed learning. Children in Early Years provision are exposed to the understanding of internet safety as they explore the world around them and how technology is an everyday part of their learning and understanding of the world.

Implementation

Within the academic year, children study computing in blocks, outlined in the subject termly overview. This shows a balance of Computer Science (Coding & Programming), Data Handling, Multimedia, Technology in our Lives & E-Safety. The children will have experiences of all these throughout each year group, which progress from one year to the next. Objectives are carefully sequenced so prior knowledge and concepts are built upon to develop their computational thinking. Adult support is available throughout lessons as well as providing a level of challenge that is stimulating for pupils and questioning skills. As well as the benefits of computing, we are also aware of the risks. Therefore, we prepare children to stay safe online through regular e-safety lessons. Computing is taught weekly/fortnightly, in our high-quality computer suite, where our children have the use of their own computer. The children also have access to shared sets of iPads and laptops throughout school for cross curricular purposes.

Impact

We encourage our children to enjoy and value the curriculum we deliver. Finding the right balance with technology is key to an effective education and a healthy life-style. The quality of children’s’ learning is evident on the Shared Drive, where they can refer to it. We aim for every child to leave our school with mouse control, typing skills, keyboard awareness and file management. Formative assessment is ongoing throughout each lesson. It judges progress and enables teachers to make flexible adaptations to their teaching and planning. Summative assessment is documented on INSIGHTS regularly.

Please click on the picture below to see the documents