Computing
A high-quality computing education equips pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Computing has deep links with mathematics, science, and design and technology, and provides insights into both natural and artificial systems.
(National Curriculum, DfE)
At Chepping View Primary Academy, the core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Building on this knowledge and understanding, pupils are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Computing also ensures that pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through, information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.
Our programme of study has been selected to provide a rich, relevant and challenging curriculum for all learners to reach their potential in acquiring the computational skills they need to navigate the wider world. We use a variety of high-quality resources to teach out Computing Curriculum, including Purple Mash as well as Scratch, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Beebots, Crumble and Microbits
In Reception, we prioritise familiarising children with technology and making sure that we teach children how to have a healthy relationship with devices. We regularly teach e-safety lessons throughout the year and talk to the children about making sensible and safe choices with screen time. Allowing pupils the opportunity to explore technology during our ‘play to learn’ time means that not only will they develop familiarity with equipment and vocabulary, but they will also have a strong start in Key Stage 1 computing, due to the foundations already being in place. Technology in the Early Years can look like:
- Taking a photograph with a tablet
- Playing games on the interactive whiteboard
- Exploring mechanical toys
- Using a Beebot
- Using a tape player to select and play music
- Using headsets to communicate with one another
In Key Stage 1 and 2, pupils have weekly Computing lessons and gain practical experiences in problem solving through coding, debugging and writing computer programs. We ensure that they have access to, and experience of, appropriate hardware and software to enable them to achieve the highest level of competence and understanding, regardless of background or level of attainment. Whenever possible and where relevant to do so, links are made across the curriculum to embed skills.
Keeping children safe online and supporting them in being independent in this is a vital component of our curriculum offer. In addition, we ensure that each year group from Year 1 to Year 6 has not only an entire half-term devoted to exploring esafety, but each year we help to build on pupil’s knowledge and skills so that they leave our Academy as independent and safe learners. As a result of our broad, progressive and sequenced curriculum, we aim for all of our learners to leave Chepping View with a strong sense of computing literacy and a passion for Computing.
In Key Stage 2, we have recently enhanced our Computing offering further by launching more physical computing: in Year 4 with Crumble devices; in Years 5 and 6 with Microbits.
Curriculum Documents
Online subject links
Here are some websites with useful information for parents on how to keep your child safe online as well as providing safe interactive games and activities for children. Please revisit these websites regularly as the online world is constantly changing.
Childnet https://www.childnet.com/young-people/4-11-year-olds/
Think u Know https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/
Purple Mash https://www.purplemash.com/sch/chepping#/
Times Tables Rock Stars https://play.ttrockstars.com/