Computing at Stoneydelph
Technology is quickly embedding itself in every aspect of our children's lives. Children have access to technology and information like no other generation before them. At Stoneydelph, we recognise that as a result of this, it is paramount that children are equipped with the skills needed to ensure that they can operate safely and with knowledge about how the world of computers, smart technologies, AI and day-to-day technology works. We are also aware that the future will contain job markets, technological interfaces and software advancements that cannot be foreseen or even imagined at the present time. With all of this in mind, we are committed to delivering a fully embedded computing curriculum to students starting at Nursery and reception age.
Our Computing Curriculum Intent
In line with the 2014 national Curriculum for Computing, our aim is to provide a high-quality computing education which equips children to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. The curriculum will teach children key knowledge about how computers and computer systems work and how they are designed and programmed. Learners will have the opportunity to gain an understanding of computational systems of all kinds, whether or not they include computers.
We intend that by the time children leave Stoneydelph Primary School, they will have gained key knowledge and skills in the three main areas of the computing curriculum: computer science (programming and understanding how digital system work); information technology (using computer systems to store, retrieve and send information) and; digital literacy (evaluating digital content and using technology safely and respectfully). The objectives within each strand support the development of learning across the key stages, ensuring a solid foundation for future learning and beyond.
Our Computing Curriculum Implementation
At Stoneydelph Primary School, computing is delivered through a clear and effective, bespoke cross-curricular scheme of work that provides coverage in line with the National Curriculum. Teaching and learning facilitates progression across all key stages within the strands of digital literacy, information technology and computer science.
The children have experiences of all three strands in each year group where the subject knowledge imparted becomes increasingly specific and in-depth, with more complex skills being taught. Knowledge and skills are mapped across each topic and year group to ensure systematic progression for each and every child.
Children have access to a wide range of hardware, software and resources which aid them in the acquisition of key computational skills and knowledge. Wider curriculum links and opportunities for the safe use of digital systems are considered in the wider curriculum planning of each year group and staff member. The importance of online safety is shown through regular teaching, school displays and through taking part in the annual Safer Internet Day activities. All children now have access to weekly digital literacy lessons using the ICT HUB or other computing resources.
Our Computing Curriculum Impact
Our approach to the curriculum results in a fun, engaging and high-quality computing education for all children.
Computing has a high profile at our school and as a result children become confident users of technology, who can use it to accomplish a wide variety of goals both in school and at home. Our children are confident using a wide range of hardware and software and are diligent learners who value online safety and respect when communicating with one another.
Children develop secure and comprehensive knowledge of the implications of technology and digital systems and how these are important in a society where technologies and trends are rapidly evolving. They are equally as able to apply the British values of democracy, tolerance, mutual respect, rule of law and liberty when using digital systems.
Our new ICT HUB!
2021 has been an exciting year for computing at Stoneydelph. We have been able to repurpose an unused space within school and commission it into a purposely designed ICT HUB for our children from all key stages to enjoy. The room includes a wide range of brand new resources, including laptops, keyboards, headphones, cameras, iPads, webcams and microphones. The room has also been set up to include a full wall green screen for our children to make exciting use of.
We are really looking forward to the children using this space each week as part of their timetabled digital literacy lesson to explore their typing and mouse skills and to learn about information technology. The staff members also have flexibility in booking the ICT HUB to facilitate other computing or curriculum learning around school.
It's a really exciting development and investment in our school and our children's futures.
