In Computing we will endeavour to prepare children with a broad skillset, knowledge and understanding to help provide the foundation for children’s learning so that they can build upon to ensure they have the to go through life in this digital world. We try our best to cover the curriculum content in a fun, engaging and broad way and we believe in providing a broad range of experiences to deliver our curriculum through a range of equipment, resources and through cross curricular links. Computational thinking is at the heart of our teaching, especially in the EYFS. It is all about asking and answering the question of why. Computational thinking helps to teach children how to ask and answer the question of “why”. This supports them to do this more effectively.
From the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), they learn basic skills including knowing how to operate simple equipment such as programable toys to accessing and completing a computer program. These skills are built upon as they progress throughout the school and by the time they finish KS1, our children are confidently using a range of skills such as creating and de-bugging simple programs, using technology to create digital content. We also feel it is incredibly important to model and educate children on how to use technology positively, responsibly and safely.
Online safety runs throughout the teaching of computing throughout the school in addition to a term focused on digital literacy in KS1. From Nursery through to Year 2 children can demonstrate an awareness of online safety, understanding of how they should behave online and are armed with strategies of dealing with any online concerns.
Ensuring that we plan for children to have a range of broad and deep experiences and opportunities to develop their skills and knowledge is at the basis of our curriculum intent. The leaders and teachers in our school have a good understanding and knowledge of the national curriculum and also understand the need to help nurture and provide opportunities to develop computational thinking and encourage creativity to help shape the digital world around them.