Computing

At Ingleton C of E Primary School we are guided by the National Curriculum for Computing.

The National Curriculum for Computing aims to 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.
Computing Curriculum Statement

INTENT

At Ingleton C of E Primary School we intend to prepare our children to be confident and competent within a world where technology plays such a significant part in society today. We recognise that our children, like many others, are using technology on a daily basis at home and at school therefore, within our curriculum, we aim to develop knowledge, understanding and confidence to ensure our children go through education and beyond being able to apply the computing skills they have learnt in everyday situations.

We ensure our children are taught the importance of online safety and internet use not only during computing lessons but also as part of our bespoke SMSC curriculum through our weekly lessons on Votes for School and the PSHE Jigsaw program. All classes have a key focus on Online Safety, and we are proud that the vast majority of our children have the knowledge and understanding of how to stay safe online. We create an open and inclusive forum where all children can openly ask questions and share their concerns. Furthermore, we regularly promote the importance of using technology safely and respectfully and ensure both pupils and parents have access to important information and guidance.

During Computer Science lessons we aim to develop independent learners who are fluent in their understanding by teaching them how to use a range of programs where they are able to design, create and evaluate their work using specific vocabulary. Pupils are given opportunities to understand and apply the essential principles and concepts of Computer Science, including logic, algorithms and data representation; analyse problems in computational term and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs in order to solve such problems.

Additionally, pupils are introduced to a wide range of technology, including laptops, iPads, and interactive whiteboards, allowing them to continually practice and improve the skills they learn. This ensures they become digitally literate so that they are able to express themselves and develop their ideas through information and computer technology at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.

IMPLEMENTATION

At Ingleton C of E Primary School, computing is taught using a blocked curriculum approach. This ensures children are able to develop depth in their knowledge and skills over the duration of each of their computing topics. We have a class set of laptops, two class sets of iPads and a number of programmable toys such as Beebots and Probots to ensure that all classes have the opportunity to use a range of devices and programs for many purposes across the wider curriculum, as well as in discrete computing lessons. Employing cross-curricular links motivates pupils and supports them to make connections and remember the steps they have been taught. This is particularly evident in pupils challenge homework and presentations delivered in class.

The implementation of the curriculum also ensures a balanced coverage of Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy. The children will have experiences of all three strands in each class, but the subject knowledge imparted becomes increasingly specific and in depth, with more complex skills being taught, thus ensuring that learning is built upon. For example, children in Key Stage 1 learn what algorithms are, which leads them to the design stage of programming in Key Stage 2, where they design, write and debug programs, explaining the thinking behind their algorithms.

IMPACT

Our approach to the curriculum results in a fun, engaging, and good quality Computing education. The quality of children’s learning is evident in class scrap books, videos and photographs or in children’s books computing books. Evidence is used to feed into teachers’ future planning, and as a topic-based approach continues to be developed, teachers are able to revisit misconceptions and knowledge gaps in computing when teaching other curriculum areas. This supports varied paces of learning and ensures all pupils make good progress.

Much of the subject-specific knowledge developed in our Computing lessons equip pupils with experiences which will benefit them in secondary school, further education and future workplaces. From research methods, use of presentation and creative tools and critical thinking, Computing at Ingleton C of E Primary School gives children the building blocks that enable them to pursue a wide range of interests and vocations in the next stage of their lives.

Downloads

Computing Long Term Plan (Purple Mash)