Computing
INTENT
At Sussex Road, we want children to be confident to explore the possibilities computing has to offer. We don’t just want children to be passive users of computers but to become active in using them, and other forms of technology, to solve problems and to consider how they can enhance our lives.
It’s important to us that children understand how to keep themselves safe online and to have the ability to question what they see and read – whether that be when communicating with others online or considering the reliability of the results of a Google search.
The children at Sussex Road are encouraged to question how the games they play online work and challenged to code their own so that they aspire, not just to use, but to design and create as well. We give the children opportunities to explore a range of programs and technology so that they can evaluate each and make appropriate choices as to their suitability for different tasks.
By the time the children leave us, we want them to be ready for the challenges and possibilities that living in a digital age presents us with and to have the skills to solve problems.
IMPLEMENTATION
Our computing curriculum is taught through our enquiry approach to learning. To support the delivery of this, we use resources from Switched on Computing. This structured approach ensures full coverage of the National Curriculum while providing opportunities for children to develop essential digital skills in a creative and meaningful way. Each unit is designed to build on prior knowledge, reinforcing concepts such as programming, data handling, online safety and multimedia creation.
As well as teaching computing skills through discrete lessons, there are opportunities to develop cross-curricular links so that children are applying their learning to real-world contexts. Our approach encourages children to explore the benefits of and multitude of uses for technology – as well as questioning its limitations. They have opportunities to develop problem-solving skills and computational thinking. Children explore the world of computing through practical experiences such as coding with block-based and text-based languages, creating digital content and understanding how networks function.
Children use a range of hardware and software to enrich their learning, from iPads and laptops to programmable devices and the J2e website to access a range of programs. Online safety is embedded throughout the curriculum, ensuring children develop responsible digital habits and understand the ethical use of technology.
IMPACT
By following our structured approach to the teaching of computing, children leave Sussex Road as competent digital citizens who can think critically, work collaboratively and apply their knowledge to a range of digital and real-world challenges.
Through regular assessment and pupil voice, we ensure children are making progress in the key areas of computer science, information technology and digital literacy. They can design, write and debug programs, use technology purposefully to create and share content and demonstrate an awareness of how to stay safe and responsible online.
Our children develop resilience, independence and a love for learning with technology. Their ability to use computational thinking to break down problems and develop solutions prepares them for the next stage of their education where digital skills are essential.
Ultimately, our computing curriculum empowers children with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the digital world safely and effectively, ensuring they are well-prepared for the technological demands of the future.
What you would see in a Computing lesson at Sussex Road Primary School?
- Opportunities for children to work independently and collaboratively
- A range of hardware and software used
- Opportunities for children to use our computing suite
- Children making decisions about which program to use for which purpose
- Opportunities for problem solving
- Technology being used to support all areas of the curriculum
- Children using technology safely and respectfully