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At St James’ Lanehead Computing is taught as a discrete subject which follows the school curriculum overview. As there are many cross curricular links, computing lessons can be linked to themes/ topics being covered in class.
Our aims for Computing is to ensure that by the end of KS2 all pupils:
:
· can understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation
· can analyse problems in computational terms, and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs in order to solve such problems
· can evaluate and apply information technology, including new or unfamiliar technologies, analytically to solve problems
· are responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information and communication technology.
Children are provided with access to technology on entry to school but this may be limited. Fewer children are entering school with experience of using a mouse. Children understand the language for mobile devices but their language of other computing related areas needs developing.
Online safety is regularly discussed and included within all computing lessons. A separate day is also designated every year to focus upon current online safety issues. Staff, governors, children and parents are made aware of online safety issues. School have also linked online safety to a specialised unit ‘ Respect of all’.
Long term plans clearly show the computing coverage and what skills should be covered. However, it is not clear what the progress between year groups should look like. We are also aspirational to provide challenge to all pupils.
The technology section of the EYFS curriculum is covered on the school’s curriculum overview but more explicit links to how it would link to the NC could be made.
All pupils have access to computing resources which they can use within the school setting. School accounts linked to Apps which can be used at home have also been utilised. Children are not expected to complete homework online. All children are provided with paper copies of homework but can complete work on a digital device if they wish or have access to one. All children have access to extra-curricular clubs.
The school uses the PurpleMash scheme of work to cover many areas of the curriculum. The system provides children with the opportunity to progress through tasks at their own pace. The majority of computing resources are computer based. The use of physical computing equipment would be beneficial so that children can see the NC link to physical systems.
The school follows Lancashire’s broad overview of skill coverage and then teaches sessions through the PurpleMash scheme of work. PurpleMash covers the majority of the planned skills but some do not have unit plans attached. Research skills are covered as a unit in the computing overview for every year group each year. Children are encouraged to read information from different electronic devices.
Online safety is regularly taught providing children which the necessary information and advice to keep themselves safe.
Children have access to Apps which encourage the quick recall of times tables and maths facts.
Mathematical language is also used within certain units of computing work.
Software has been used as a way to present statistics.
Older children have begun to use formula as a way to calculate the answers to problems.