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Computing 2024-2025

We provide an ICT rich environment which allows pupils to gain the confidence and ability to prepare them for the challenge of a rapidly developing and changing technological world.  Our computing curriculum equips pupils with the necessary skills for the future workplace as well as ensuring a sound understanding of safety online.

3 aims that underpin this are:

  • To develop the Computing skills of everyone in school so they are confident, safe and independent.
  • To provide interactive learning for adults and children through a range of current technologies.
  • To encourage independent learning for life.

Our intent for children’s learning across Computing is mapped into three strands, dividing this broad subject into 3 main areas that build progressively throughout a child’s time in our school.

  •          Computer Science: Programming, including Controlling Hardware               
  •          Information Technology: Computer Systems & Contexts
  •          Digital Literacy: Using computer systems to present work and E-Safety
We would like our pupils to ...

Speak like a Computer Scientist : using high level technological vocabulary to confidently discuss key computing subjects.

Think like a Computer Scientist : showing curiosity and fascination about the world and how technology can enhance and support other developments and inventions.

Act like a Computer Scientist : experiencing a range of opportunities to use a variety of technology, collect data, research and produce work using technology to support and enhance the final product.  In addition to this, students will think about how technological based events from the past and people have affected their own lives.

Read like a Computer Scientist : taking a fascination in technological advances to further their computing interest

Learning in Action

Nursery

Starting in our 2 year old room, the children access the interactive whiteboard, mark making and drawing, listening to nursery rhymes and songs and using the iPads. Nursery also enjoy creating digital images using the interactive whiteboard.

 

“I enjoy drawing on the interactive whiteboard.” Roman, age 4.

Reception
In Reception, Computing is part of Understanding the World. Reception pupils access computing through use of the interactive whiteboard, using the iPads, bee bots, and the CD player. Reception children enjoy creating digital images and taking photos using the iPads.

 

“Look, I made a pattern.” Lucien, age 5.

Year 1

In Year 1, Computing focuses on Programming and Hardware. Year 1 pupils learn about different aspects of a computer, how to use a computer to create and edit text and images, the basics of algorithms and how to move a robot. 

 

"A computer is a laptop or a desktop.” Ferne, age 6.

Year 2
In Year 2 our pupils begin their coding journey using Scratch Jr, that they will continue up until the end of Year 4.  They begin to learn about computer systems and networks and use words such as algorithms.  They make links to their maths with pictograms, and music with their 'Making Music' topic.  They learn how to be more analytical when it comes to taking digital photographs, readying them for their work in KS2. 
Year 3
In Year 3, the children build upon the skills learned on their journey through KS1.  Undertaking two programming topics, making sequences in music and learning simple programming using Scratch Jr, adding up to 3 sprites giving each a separate set of instructions.  They learn about how the Internet works ... how it all connects together.  With two digital design topics there are opportunities to link to other areas of the curriculum - they learn to make stop animations linked to English work and use Book Creator to showcase their History knowledge.  
Year 4
We continue to develop our programming skills and knowledge using Scatch Jr to investigate how to code repetition in games and developing our Maths knowledge with finding  quick ways to draw regular polygons with a turtle.  The Year 4 pupils continue on their 'IT Around Us topic (which runs from Nursery through to Year 6) with a thorough investigation into what actually is the Internet?  More Science links using data loggers to collect information about light and sounds around our school site and a digital sound topic, where we find out how to edit audio.    
Year 5
In Year 5 our pupils have the opportunity to program MicroBits, it's packed with inputs, outputs, sensors and radio communication features that the children learn to control.  This topic continues into year 6 too.  They learn how to set up quizzes with multiple options and start looking at data bases in preparation for spreadsheets later on.  Great fun is had making their own videos and learning to edit them whilst in their digital design work they begin to find out about Vector Graphics.  
Take a look at the MicroBits for yourself ... Micro:bit Educational Foundation | micro:bit (microbit.org)
Its great fun!
Year 6
In Year 6 the children continue to develop their knowledge of  MicroBits, looking at how to program the different sensors.  They make their own games, that includes variables - things that change.  The children experiment with the features of spreadsheets, how they enable users to format, organise and calculate data.  Within the IT Around Us topic, the children investigate how to work with each other online, share data in a safe way and explore how data is transferred over the Internet. Then look at how the Internet facilitates online communication and collaboration; completing shared projects online and evaluate different methods of communication. Finally, they learn how to communicate responsibly by considering what should and should not be shared on the internet, in preparation for their transition to secondary school.  Their digital design topics take on a completely new level, with 3D modelling and Webpage creation, lots of aspirational ideas for their futures post St Stephens.

Digital Literacy INTERNET SAFETY

Our pupils are growing up in a world of ever-changing technology. While we feel that the use of technology is a largely positive aspect of modern life, we cannot ignore the risks that can be associated.

Throughout school we aim to teach children:

  • about the impact of cyber-bullying and what to do if they have been affected.
  • to be vigilant when communicating online recognising that people may not always be who they say they are and to be sensible about what they share.
  • to tell an adult they trust if something is upsetting them.
  • to question the reliability of information given through a web based source.
  • to search responsibly for information while using internet browsers.

We understand that much of our pupil's use of the internet will occur at home, away from the school filters.

Below are a list of useful websites, advice and resources that you may find helpful when navigating the issue of online safety with your child. At the bottom of this page are resources that your child can directly access as well to help them learn about online safety.

Useful resources and links

Thinkuknow http://www.thinkuknow.co.uk
Thinkuknow is an education programme from the National Crime Agency’s CEOP Command. Since 2006, it aims to ensure that everyone has access to this practical information – children, young people, their parents and carers and the professionals who work with them. 

Internet Matters https://www.internetmatters.org/advice/esafety-leaflets-resources/
A comprehensive web resource with a wide array of tips and advice on how to navigate the online world with your child. Some of their guidance we attach below but you can find even more by visiting the link. 

National Online Safety https://nationalonlinesafety.com/resources/platform-guides/
National Online Safety's mission is to make the internet a safer place for children. They aim to do this by equipping school staff, parents and children with the knowledge they need to understand online dangers and how best to react should an incident arise. The link above provides up to date information about a wide variety of social media apps and platforms your child might be using.

NSPCC http://www.nspcc.org.uk/preventing-abuse/keeping-children-safe/share-aware/
The NSPCC are the first to admit that the internet is amazing. Children can play, learn, create and connect - opening up a whole world of exciting possibilities. But with the digital world changing all the time, how can you make sure your child’s staying safe? That’s where the NSPCC come in. Whether you’re an online expert or you’re not sure where to start, their tools and advice will help you keep your child safe.

Childnet http://www.childnet.com/parents-and-carers
Childnet International is a registered UK charity that aims to make the internet a safe place for children and young people. Packed with resources it is a great resource for parents.

CEOP http://ceop.police.uk/safety-centre/
Child Exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP) is part of the National Crime Agency and their website can be used to report if you are worried about online abuse or the way someone is communicating online.

BBC  https://www.bbc.com/ownit
The BBC have a website and app called Own It. The website has a lot of content for children to help them navigate their online lives, and the free smartphone app comes with a special keyboard which can intervene with help and support in the moments that children need it the most.

SafetoNet https://safetonet.com/
SafeToNet is technology that educates children “in-the-moment” as they use their device. It is a safeguarding assistant that helps them become responsible and safe digital citizens. Its power lies in a smart keyboard that detects risks in real-time. It steers children away from trouble by filtering harmful outgoing messages before they can be sent and any damage can be done.

A guide to Apps & Social Media

The number of apps and social media channels your child could be exposed to grow all the time, as does an app's functionality. We recommend you visit Net Aware to read the latest and most current advice on over 70 apps to ensure you know what they do, how you can limit their features as well as recommended age restrictions.

https://www.net-aware.org.uk/

The apps included are:

  • Fortnite
  • Instagram
  • Snapchat
  • YouTube
  • Minecraft
  • Clash of Clans & Clash Royale
  • Kik
  • Friv
  • Dubsmash
  • Wink
  • YOLO
  • TikTok
  • And many, many more

Resources for children to use

Below are some links that children themselves can access for help when navigating the tricky subject of online safety,

Nursery – Year 2

Below are a number of links that are tailored for children in the younger year groups.
https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/5_7/ 
https://www.netsmartzkids.org/
https://www.childnet.com/resources/smartie-the-penguin

Year 3 – Year 6

Below are links more suitable for older children.
https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/8_10/
https://www.nsteens.org/

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