Intent
At Wolsingham Primary School, we believe that Computing is an essential part of the curriculum; a subject that not only stands alone but should also be used throughout the curriculum and should be an integral part of all learning. Computing, in general, is a significant part of everyone’s daily life and children should be at the forefront of new technology, with a thirst for learning what is out there. It has also got deep links with mathematics, science and design and technology, and provides insights into both natural and artificial systems. Computing within schools can therefore provide a wealth of learning opportunities and transferable skills explicitly within the Computing lesson and across other curriculum subjects.
Through the study of Computing, children will be able to develop a wide range of fundamental skills, knowledge and understanding that will equip them for the rest of their life. At the very core of computing is computer science, in which pupils will be taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Wolsingham Primary School also wants to build on this knowledge and understanding so that pupils are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. The Computing curriculum should also ensure that pupils become digitally literate so they are 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. They should have the experience of a variety of different programmes and understand how these programmes can fulfil specific purposes. By the end of Upper Key Stage 2, we want our children to have the essential knowledge that will enable them to participate effectively and safely in the digital world and be ready to access the Key Stage 3 curriculum.
At Wolsingham Primary School, we also take children’s online safety very seriously. Online safety lessons will be taught throughout the lessons in conjunction with independently taught lessons and as the need arises. If appropriate, teachers should consider ways in which the Computing Online Safety curriculum can also cover key safeguarding issues such as ‘upskirting’.
Computing in the Early Years
A technological child in the early years will be exposed to a range of technological toys such as those with knobs and pulleys, developing a skill in making toys work by pressing parts or lifting flaps to achieve effects such as sound, movements or new images. They will seek to acquire basic skills in turning on and operating basic ICT equipment. They will learn that information is retrieved from computers, and how to do this with support. They will interact with age appropriate computer software, and ICT hardware, operating a simple computer program, and other technological resources such as remote control cars, torches, cameras etc. They will recognise that a range of technology is used in places such as homes and schools, selecting technology for a purpose. A lot of learning in the early years takes place through purposeful play, both indoors and outdoors. Towards the end of Reception children will be learning skills to equip them for their future learning and later success in Year 1.
Please see our Whole School Long Term Overview and Whole School Long Term Plan to see what our pupils will study during each year.
