Computing – Intent, Implementation and Impact.
Intent:
Our aim at Albourne is to give children a thorough and ambitious education in computing, equipping them to use technology, computational thinking and creativity with a solid grounding for future learning and the ability to become active digital citizens in the modern world. At Albourne we understand that technology is everywhere and will play a pivotal part in students' lives; therefore, we want to model and educate our pupils on how to use technology positively, responsibly and safely and that they see good models of this.
By the time they leave Albourne, children will have gained key knowledge and skills in the three main strands of the National Curriculum for Computing (2014): computer science (programming and understanding how digital systems work), information technology (using computer systems to create, store, retrieve and send information) and digital literacy (evaluating digital content and using technology safely and respectfully). We encourage staff to try and embed computing across the whole curriculum to make learning creative and accessible. We want our pupils to be fluent with a range of tools to best express their understanding; by Upper Key Stage 2, children should have the independence and confidence to choose the best tool to fulfil the task and challenge set by teachers. Our curriculum ensures they know what to do if they have concerns about anything they encounter online, and how to be safe, responsible and respectful when using the internet.
Implementation:
At Albourne, computing is taught weekly, the key knowledge and skills that must be taught within each unit have been identified and mapped to support the progression of children’s learning across the primary phases. An overview of each unit’s key vocabulary, key knowledge and linked prior knowledge is available through the knowledge organisers.
Our computing progression framework ensures a balanced coverage of the three computing strands (computer science, information technology and digital literacy). The children work on all three strands each year, including e-safety. As they progress through the school, children build on their prior learning within each strand, covering new or deeper knowledge and developing their technical skills. For coding, the school uses the Discovery Espresso units from year 1 to year 6; this allows for a clear progression and development of block coding skills. We will continue to develop our links with the other schools within the Trust, sharing resources, skills and ideas.
Wider Curriculum links and opportunities for the safe use of digital systems are considered in curriculum planning. Through cross-curricular uses of computing in other subjects, teachers are able to revisit misconceptions and knowledge gaps in computing in tandem with other curriculum areas. This supports varied paces of learning and ensures pupils make good progress. The importance of online safety is shown through displays within the learning environment and through PSHE lessons. Parents are informed when issues relating to online safety arise and further information/support is provided if required.
Impact:
We believe the children of Albourne will be confident users of technology, and will be able to use it to accomplish a wide variety of goals, both at home and in school. Children will have a secure and comprehensive knowledge of the implications of technology and digital systems, which is important in a society where technologies and trends are rapidly evolving. Children will be able to apply the school values and expectations when using digital systems.
Children can use their computer skills to showcase their writing and presentation skills which can then be featured on the school website. We know that finding the right balance with technology is key to an effective education and a healthy life-style. We feel the way we implement computing helps children realise the need for the right balance and one they can continue to build on in their next stage of education and beyond.