Intent
At our school we want pupils to begin to have useful and meaningful experiences of technology and computing. 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. We want our pupils to experience a broad curriculum encompassing computer science, information technology and digital literacy to reflects this. We want our pupils to understand that there is always a choice with using technology and as a school we are starting to utilise a range of technology to model positive use. We recognise that the best prevention for a lot of issues we currently see with technology/social media is through education. Building our knowledge in this subject throughout the year, we intend for pupils to effectively demonstrate their learning through creative use of technology.
We recognise that technology can allow pupils to share their learning in creative ways. We also understand the accessibility opportunities technology can provide for our pupils. We are starting to encourage staff to try and embed computing across the whole curriculum to make learning creative and accessible.
We are beginning to teach our pupils to use a range of tools to best express their understanding and hope by Upper Key Stage 2, children have the independence and confidence to choose the best tool to fulfil the task and challenge set by teachers.
Implementation
The content of the Computing National Curriculum is taught over two year cycles across both settings. Across the Trent-Rylands Federation, we are beginning to explore ways of embedding computing into all areas of the curriculum to ensure consistency and progression across both schools.
All KS2 classes are timetabled to use the laptop trolley for at least one class teaching session each week. Children work in pairs or small groups as well as individually, to complete activities at the computers or technological devices (e.g. Rugged Robot, USB microphones, BeeBot Mice etc). Work is planned by key stage teams and delivered by individual teachers. Planning is for whole-class teaching, with differentiation where appropriate.
Impact
We encourage our children to enjoy and value the curriculum we deliver. We want learners to discuss, reflect and appreciate the impact computing has on their learning, development and well-being. They will understand how to use technology effectively and efficiently. Children’s knowledge and skills will develop progressively as they move through the school, not only to enable them to meet the requirements of the National Curriculum but to prepare them to become competent users of technology in secondary education and all facets of their lives.
