Computing

Intent

At Lydiard Millicent CE Primary School, we want pupils to be independent, forward thinkers of technology and not passive learners. Technology is ubiquitous and will play a pivotal role shaping and influencing pupils’ lives. Therefore, we aim to model and educate our pupils’ on how to use technology that reflects our school rules; being safe, responsible and respectful. When teaching computing, we equip children with the skills required to use computers effectively to enable them to maximise their potential. To do so, we deploy teaching strategies through the Purple Mash scheme of work that promotes resilience, independence, critical thinking, communication skills and problem solving. We intend on delivering a broad curriculum which encourages a love of learning for children within a progressive sequence. We want our pupils to understand that there is always a choice when accessing technology, and as a school, in particular with ‘social media’ - we aim to model positive use. We understand that preventative methods of online/social media misuse can be addressed through education, embedded throughout our school values. We recognise that Computing unlocks pathways for children to be inquisitive individuals and provides a balance of structure and a canvas for digital artists to share their learning in creative ways. We understand that accessibility opportunities of hardware/software and unplugged resources, either in school or from home, creates equality for all children and our knowledge rich curriculum will aim to cultivate a community of computer-skilled scientists. We aspire for our children to take pride in their work and to become competent with a varied range of tools that best expresses their understanding. Upon leaving Lydiard Millicent, we aim for children to become confident users of computing and responsible digital citizens who are ready to meet the challenges of their digital future.

Implementation

We believe that all children should be using computers from an early age to help improve their skills when navigating and using devices – after all, some of our children will be using 22nd-century technology one day. As a result of this belief, across the school, children will have access to laptops and iPads. Computing is implemented across all aspects of our school curriculum.

At Lydiard Millicent CE Primary, we believe that a clear and effective scheme of work that provides coverage in line with the National Curriculum is essential to meet the requirements of our children in order for them to thrive. To ensure that children are being exposed to high quality lessons focusing on the skills and knowledge required to be successful ‘computational thinkers’ we have invested in Purple Mash. This ensures that all key areas of the computing curriculum are taught and revisited during a child’s primary school years. This allows our children to build on their learning year after year, building on their vocabulary and to also practice skills where they may not be as confident and likewise, progress their knowledge and skills even further.

We strive to keep children safe online and provide them with the knowledge and tools to do so. We also empower parents, carers and the wider community with up to date information regarding keeping children safe online. We recognise the unique contribution that e-learning makes to the motivation and effectiveness of learners in our school and the role that the school has in preparing pupils for their future by improving their knowledge and understanding of how technology is an aid to learning.

Impact

We encourage our children to enjoy and value the curriculum that we deliver. Fundamentally, we ask the ‘why’ and not just the ‘how’ to explore the depth of each objective within a stimulating environment that encourages children to discuss, reflect and appreciate the impact that Computing has on their learning, development and wellbeing. Finding the right balance with technology is key to an effective education and a healthy lifestyle. We feel the way that we implement Computing within cross-curricular channels at Lydiard Millicent helps children realise the need for the right balance and one they can build on in their next stage of education and beyond. We encourage regular discussions between staff and pupils to best embed and understand this. The way pupils showcase, share, celebrate and publish their work will best show the impact of our curriculum. We look for positive impact through observing learning regularly, early intervention where necessary and reviewing pupil’s digital skills through tools across Purple Mash. Progress of our Computing curriculum is measured through outcomes and the record of coverage through work saved in pupils’ personal document folders and saved ‘to do’ content electronically.