Computing

COMPUTING CURRICULUM INTENT

At Yapton C. of E. Primary School we believe that to live life in all its fullness we have an open door to learning where…

While in our lifetime, we remember oversized mobile phones, dial up internet and the Atari tennis game, computing has evolved so fast it is now vastly different. Our curriculum must teach children how much has, and will, change so that they have the skills to use technology competently, explore its creative potential and perhaps, most importantly confidently stay safe in a world increasingly dominated by social media.  To do this, we as educators need the skills subject knowledge, resources and confidence to deliver this. Computing, in general, is a significant part of everyone’s daily life and children should be at the forefront of new technology, with a thirst for learning more about it.  

 We aim to prepare our children for a rapidly changing world by  

• Teaching pupils how to use a wide range of technology responsibly and safely.  
• Providing exciting learning experiences that balance all aspects of computing 
• Exploring the use of digital technology in computing lessons, throughout the curriculum and beyond the school gates.  
• Equipping pupils with a wide range of transferable skills. 

Through purposeful learning opportunities we ensure that pupils become digitally literate.  They are able to use a range of computing tools, express themselves and develop their ideas through information and communication technology at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in our world today.  

Computing has deep links with science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). At Yapton C. Of E. Primary School, our children are taught how to use technology safely with a balance of basic skills and Computer Science. Pupils are introduced to a wide range of technology, including PC’s, tablets and interactive whiteboards, allowing them to continually practice and improve the skills they learn.  Where possible, links will be made with other areas of the curriculum giving pupils the chance to broaden their understanding of a concept within their wider learning.

Teaching and Promoting Online Safety

Online safety is an important part of our Computing curriculum and is promoted throughout the year. Rather than being taught as a separate block of lessons, online safety is embedded within Computing lessons and classroom discussions, allowing children to regularly revisit and develop their understanding.

Children are encouraged to talk openly about their experiences online and learn how to make safe, responsible and positive choices when using technology. Discussions cover topics such as keeping personal information private, recognising and responding to inappropriate or unsafe content, communicating respectfully online, understanding the importance of passwords and knowing what to do if something online makes them feel uncomfortable or worried.

By revisiting these themes regularly throughout the year, we aim to ensure that online safety remains an ongoing conversation and that children develop the knowledge, confidence and skills they need to navigate the digital world safely.