Intent

Our goal is to ensure that every child is prepared for, and highly capable of safely working within, the ever-changing technological environment of the 21st Century.

How Computing links with our school values

Children learn how to use and respect a range of different equipment and resources.  The importance of e-safety and how to stay safe online is a theme which is an integral part of our curriculum.
Children have access to a range of computing equipment and have the opportunity to develop their skills in lessons and as part of our wider curriculum.
Children are inspired through stimulating software and hardware and learn about technology and its applications in the modern world.
Children are encouraged to problem solve and develop their computational thinking, evaluating and refining their ideas to achieve desired outcomes.

Implementation

  • We follow the National Curriculum in all year groups from 1 – 6 and EYFS Development Matters for Early Years.
  • The curriculum is organised around three key strands – information technology, digital literacy and computer science; it reflects the prevalence of technology in everyday life;
  • A carefully planned whole school curriculum promotes progression of computing knowledge and skills and is linked to the Teach Computing’s Scheme of Work.
  • We engage with the Project Evolve programme to support our teaching and learning, including using it to underpin the digital literacy and e-safety aspects of learning;
  • We use a variety of resources including BBC Micro:bits, Lego Wedo, iPads, Chromebooks and Beebots, as well as a range of learning opportunities in order to promote a breadth of learning, ensure progression and provide the children with the experience of diverse technologies;
  • We combine computer learning with physical, hands-on resources to give the children real-world experiences, particularly with programming;
  • We apply cross curricular links, including using Computer-Aided Design and programming to support Design and Technology, and link Control to Electrical Circuits in Science.
  • We ensure the children understand the benefits of working with technology, but also develop an understanding of the health and wellbeing impacts, particularly the dangers involved in the digital world.
  • We use skills learned in computing to support STEM activities including STEM week and STEM club, as well as liaising with STEM Ambassadors to give a “real-world” context to our learning, such as with robotics in Year 3.

Impact

  • Children will leave Hempland secure in their digital literacy and able to safely use a variety of technology.
  • Children will develop their knowledge and skills via problem solving and computational thinking and apply these in their future education and careers.