Computing

Intent

Our aim is to empower our pupils by setting them on the path to developing the skills and knowledge they need to make current and future technologies work for them, not being constrained by the limitations of a software package.

In Key Stage 2, we aim to encourage pupils to engage with computing concepts, developing skills and understanding of elements of computer science in a practical, hands-on way. Pupils are supported through scaffolding, encouraging them to develop independence and stretched through challenge tasks, encouraging them to extend and apply their learning in different ways.

In Key Stage 3, we look to prepare pupils for the 21st century workplace and jobs that do not yet exist. Practical, project-based work, computational thinking and collaboration are at the core of the curriculum, as are multi-faceted tasks that require a range of software to move through every stage of a process from design to a finished product, encouraging pupils to use technology in a meaningful context.
 

Implementation

In Key Stage 2, we encourage pupils to engage with concepts such as programming through block-based languages and physical computing. Concepts such as robotics, game design, chroma key video, animation and more are used to capture pupils’ imagination and inspire their creativity. Computer Science concepts such as inputs and outputs, sequence, selection and repetition and debugging are core to what we do in Key Stage 2 and then built on in Key Stage 3 to ensure continuity and progression.

In Key Stage 3, pupils progress from block-based programming languages to text based languages, primarily working in Python. We combine programming with a range of devices, technologies and contexts, such as 3D printing, and digital music production to create a broad curriculum, encompassing Computer Science, ICT and Digital Literacy. By exploring elements of Computer Science such as sorting and searching algorithms and binary and hexadecimals, we aim to give our pupils a solid grounding in these concepts that will prepare them for Key Stage 4. Use of Raspberry Pi computers, 3D printers and Android devices give pupils experience of a range of devices and operating systems that will help them deal with future technologies they may encounter.

Impact

The computing curriculum enables pupils to realise that, by understanding more about how computers work, they can make computers do more. In Key Stage 2, pupils make clear progress in their ability to design and write programs, and develop their understanding of different types of inputs and outputs such as using sensors to control motors. In Key Stage 3, pupils make strong progress in using text based programming languages. The vast majority of pupils start with no knowledge of text based programming, but leave us able to write programs in a range of contexts on different devices. Using devices that pupils may not otherwise see, such as the Raspberry Pi challenges concepts of what a computer is and physical computing such as building remote controlled vehicles challenges ideas of what a computer does, leaving pupils with a more rounded understanding of how computers permeate our everyday lives.