Computing - Curriculum Intent

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Progression Document 2021-2022  
The National Curriculum for Computing aims to ensure that all pupils: 
  • Can understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation.
  • Can analyse problems in computational terms, and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs in order to solve such problems.
  • Can evaluate and apply information technology, including new or unfamiliar technologies, analytically to solve problems. 
  • Become responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information and communication technology. 
 
We aim to achieve this by providing opportunities:
  • For pupils to become familiar with and skilled in using computational technology and programming software. 
  • To access equipment which supports pupils learning and individual needs. 
  • To equip pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to be active participants in a digital world.
  • To ensure that computing is integrated into the curriculum so that children can apply their computing knowledge in a range of contexts.
  • To provide access to a range of equipment to support pupils and staff. Desk top computers and whiteboards, laptops, ipads, digital cameras that create a challenging and stimulating environment. 
 
This aims are implemented via the ‘2simple’ scheme of work by Purple Mash. This scheme enables children build on current knowledge to further develop their skills as they progress through the school.
​​The children’s knowledge and skills are taught in eight distinct areas; Coding and Computational thinking, Spreadsheets, Internet and Email, Art and Design, Music, Databases and graphing, Writing and Presenting and Communication and networks. Children need to be logged onto Purple Mash with their own individual usernames and passwords so their work will be saved in their own folders automatically and can be easily reviewed and assessed by the class teacher.
 
Children are taught how to use software and hardware, the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to apply this knowledge through all areas of the curriculum. Children use their knowledge to makes links to the wider curriculum, for example, researching information in topic lessons, creating presentations and video reports in English.
 
Children at Tickford Park Primary School have weekly access to the ICT suite, where they have their own individual computers purchased in April 2019. All classes have smartboards, a laptop and at desktops in year group shared area. We have a class set of ipads for teachers to use where appropriate. Pupils have access to a wide range of hardware and software to meet the needs of everyone in school.
Online safety is a priority at Tickford Park Primary School. Online Safety is taught continually through the curriculum, as well as specific units in each year group. We deliver an online safety day for children throughout school. 
 
Children’s knowledge is assessed termly, which are then used to plan next steps for children- using appropriate differentiation where necessary. Teaching staff have received training in how to implement the scheme so that children receive the best possible outcomes.