Computing
- Know how to stay safe online
- Know how to build code and debug programs using known software
- Know the functions and purposes of common software such as word processing and presentation software
- Understand how to use research tools effectively and safely
- Know how to collaborate online and offline
- Know the capabilities of common technological devices
- Know how to use and combine a variety of different software and hardware to fulfil a goal
Importance to Bearwood Primary and Nursery pupils:
Our aim is to deliver a high-quality, progressive computing curriculum that equips pupils with the knowledge to prepare them to thrive within a constantly advancing and technological world. At Bearwood, technology is used as an educational tool and therefore we aim to build children’s understanding of how they can use technology efficiently and safely to do this.
E-safety is at the heart of the computing curriculum and a part of every lesson ensures that children are equipped with strategies that enable them to make confident and safe judgements about their online activity at school and at home. Throughout each year, children will build on their knowledge of how to stay safe which is divided into the following areas: self-image and identity; online relationships; online reputation; online bullying; managing online information; health, image and well-being; privacy and security; and copyright and ownership. This allows children to understand the potential online issues and the responsibilities of being online including the use of social media which is adapted and updated appropriately. Additional sessions are also taught to reflect the needs of the children and e-safety is celebrated through days such as Internet Safety Day.
The core of computing is Computer Science, in which pupils are taught the principles of how digital systems work and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Children will build upon their understanding of what an algorithm is and how they can input these into computers. Building on this knowledge and understanding, pupils are equipped to create programs and use logical reasoning to debug them.
The computing curriculum is designed to ensure that pupils become digitally literate at a level suitable to prepare them for the next stage in their education, the future workplace, and as active participants in a digital world. This will enable them to express themselves and develop their ideas through information and communication technology.
Pupils in EYFS are exposed to a range of technology that gives them the opportunity to demonstrate that they recognise that technology is used both in school and out of school. This will develop children’s understanding of how technology can be used for a range of purposes. Pupils within KS1 and KS2 experience lessons where they are able to learn and build on skills that progress from lesson to lesson, unit to unit and year group to year group. Each year, children have the opportunity to develop their knowledge of computer science, information technology and digital literacy which builds on their prior knowledge. Children have the chance to work with a range of devices and different software to build their understanding of the uses of technology and their purposes.