Aims of the Computing Curriculum

“Together We Learn. Together We Achieve” is embedded into all elements of school life and learning at Sir John Heron Primary including in the computing curriculum and lessons. Computing is an important part of the school’s broad and balanced curriculum. We believe it is important all children have access to a coherently sequenced computing curriculum which is relevant to their needs and interests and equips children with the necessary knowledge and skills needed to succeed in their next stage of education and prepares them for life in modern 21^st century Britain.

Computing plays an important role in working towards the aims of the school’s curriculum. The aims include ensuring children master a range of knowledge and skills, are provided with vocabulary rich learning, are encouraged to become healthy and active citizens and are provided with enrichment opportunities and cultural capital development while also supporting the development of key skills needed for successful learning such as resilience and risk taking.

The aims of the Computing Curriculum are tied with the National Curriculum. These aims ensure that 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.

1. Promoting Purposeful Engagement

We believe that Computing should be purposeful and relevant to pupils' lives. Our intent is to engage pupils by providing real-world contexts, authentic challenges, and opportunities for exploration and problem-solving.

2. Building Core Knowledge and Skills

We recognise the importance of a solid foundation in Computing. Our intent is to ensure that pupils develop core knowledge and skills, such as understanding algorithms, computational logic, and coding, to enhance their abilities to create, use, and evaluate technology effectively and ethically.

3. Fostering Creativity and Innovation

We value creativity and innovation in Computing. Our intent is to create an environment that encourages pupils to think critically, experiment, and take risks. We want pupils to become imaginative and resourceful digital creators, able to develop innovative solutions to problems.

4. Nurturing Digital Literacy and Online Safety

We understand the significance of digital literacy and online safety. Our intent is to develop pupils' understanding of the digital world, including how to navigate it safely, responsibly, and ethically. We aim to equip them with the skills to identify and manage risks and develop positive digital footprints.

5. Providing Inclusive and Accessible Computing Education

We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible Computing education to all pupils. Our intent is to remove barriers to learning, adapt teaching approaches, and provide appropriate resources, ensuring that every pupil, regardless of background or ability, can fully participate in Computing lessons and activities.

How Computing is taught at SJH

1. Comprehensive Computing Curriculum

Computing at Sir John Heron is taught using Teach Computing Online Safety scheme of work which is aligned with the National Curriculum, covering key elements such as computer science, information technology, and digital literacy. The curriculum provides a well-sequenced progression of knowledge, skills, and concepts, integrating cross-curricular links where appropriate. These are adapted to the needs of our children and are planned by the teacher using the Medium Term Plans.

2. Purposeful and Engaging Lessons

We plan and deliver purposeful and engaging Computing lessons that cater to the diverse needs and abilities of our pupils. Learning experiences are carefully crafted to include practical activities, problem-solving tasks, collaborative projects, and opportunities for creativity and independent

Computing is taught each week in blocks.

The first lesson is always an Online Safety lesson and this lesson is recorded in some way by the teacher either with a photograph in Computing folders or work saved on Google Drive.

The remaining lessons are structured so that the children work on a set of skills that have been laid out in the Medium Term plan towards an end product.

Children are encouraged to work collaboratively and help one another, ensuring that children’s skills are developed and more able children aid less able children. The skills that are taught are developed from one year to another and grown from Year 1 to Year 6 with children learning how to code, analyse problems, and solve computing problems.

3. Cross-Curricular Integration

There is an emphasis on vocabulary in every lesson (tier 2 and 3 words) that is taught explicitly by the teacher. This vocabulary has been highlighted in the Medium Term plans as well as the KWL grids that children are expected to fill in over the course of the block.

Cross-curricular links are made where children are encouraged to apply their computing skills in other areas of the curriculum. This is done in hopes of having a more holistic approach with Computing that allows children to develop cultural capital in different areas SMSC links and enrichment opportunities are also embedded where appropriate.

4. High-Quality Resources and Digital Infrastructure

We provide high-quality resources, including hardware, software, and online tools, to facilitate effective teaching and learning. Our school has a robust digital infrastructure, ensuring that all pupils have access to appropriate devices and reliable network connectivity.

5. Safeguarding and Online Safety Education

We have implemented a comprehensive safeguarding policy, which includes explicit teaching of online safety. Pupils are educated about the potential risks associated with technology and learn how to make informed decisions, protect their personal information, and respond to concerns about online content or conduct.

Assessment of Computing

At Sir John Heron Primary, our approach to Computing is thoughtfully designed to yield a transformative impact on our students, aligning with our commitment to fostering holistic development. Our assessment methods, carried out using SIMs at the culmination of each topic block, enable teachers to gauge the progress and proficiency of our students comprehensively.

Throughout lessons, we prioritise active engagement and understanding by employing dynamic techniques. Teacher-led discussions and thought-provoking open-ended questions serve as real-time checks on the children's learning, promoting a participatory and collaborative classroom environment.

The utilisation of KWL grids further enhances our assessment practices. These grids, employed consistently throughout the block, empower students to document and showcase the knowledge they have acquired, fostering a sense of ownership and accomplishment in their learning journey.

The envisioned impact of our Computing curriculum is multi-faceted, reflecting our commitment to excellence and inclusivity:

1. High Levels of Attainment and Progression:

Students are expected to showcase substantial progress, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and understanding needed to proficiently apply technology in diverse contexts. This prepares them not only for the challenges of secondary school but also for future endeavours.

2. Pupil Engagement and Aspiration:

Our curriculum actively engages students, nurturing a sense of aspiration. Through opportunities for creative problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking, we instil a passion for Computing, fostering confidence and inspiration for further exploration in the subject.

3. Ethical and Responsible Use of Technology:

We prioritise the development of ethical and responsible technology users. By cultivating an understanding of digital citizenship, online safety, and ethical considerations, our students emerge as responsible digital citizens capable of making informed choices and positively contributing to the digital world.

4. Inclusion and Equality of Opportunity:

Inclusivity is at the core of our approach. Irrespective of background or ability, every student is ensured equal access to the Computing curriculum, fostering an environment where all can thrive and reach their full potential.

5. Positive Attitudes towards Computing:

Our curriculum, delivered with enthusiasm and expertise, aims to cultivate positive attitudes towards Computing. Students perceive Computing as an exciting and valuable skillset, empowering them to embrace technology as creators, problem solvers, and responsible digital citizens.

In summary, our intentional approach to Computing, paired with robust assessment methods and an unwavering commitment to inclusivity and engagement, positions Sir John Heron Primary as a hub for fostering a generation of digitally literate, creative, and responsible individuals. Our students are not only prepared for the challenges of the digital world but are equipped with the essential skills for future success.