Intent

Computing is an essential part of everyday life and will continue to evolve in, as yet, unknown ways. Our children, therefore, need the ability, wisdom and the confidence to adapt to new technological opportunities as they arise. It is important that we provide all our children with the skills, knowledge and attitude that will prepare them for the challenge of our rapidly changing and increasingly connected community and world, as well as ensure they understand the impact of their behaviour online.

Implementation

We integrate technology into all areas of school life in order to enhance and extend our children's learning. In our computing curriculum we plan regular opportunities to use technology in meaningful contexts within and across other subject areas. We also recognise that the use of technology can enhance communication between the school and parents and use our school website to share the children's learning and celebrate achievements. Computing covers three distinct but related strands:

Digital Literacy - is at the heart of our computing curriculum. It ensures that children are able to use technology safely and responsibly to express themselves, communicate with others and develop their ideas. We recognise that the digital world is constantly changing (one cohort’s Club Penguin chatroom is another cohort’s Snapchat). With this in mind, we regularly update and review our curriculum to ensure we teach appropriate skills and knowledge that the children can readily apply across to situations they will encounter in a wide range of online platforms e.g. educational apps, recreational games and social media.

Information Technology - is about using technology. Not just computers, but a range of equipment such as laptops, iPads and data loggers. We teach the skills required for practical purposes, such as using search technology, collecting and presenting information, manipulating data and creating videos and content.

Computer Science - teaches how digital systems work, the principles of computational thinking and how to use programming software. Building on this knowledge and understanding, children develop the skills required to create programmes that include a range of content with increasing complexity. Children are taught to explore and evaluate the effectiveness of information technology and solve problems analytically.

Impact

When children leave the St Mary’s, their computing knowledge reflects that fact that they are growing up in a digital world. They will have learned about the benefits that technology has to offer as well as developing a critical awareness of their own and other’s online behaviour. They will know how to conduct themselves online, showing dignity and respect to others. We ensure that they develop effective strategies for keeping safe online whilst being an active participant in the online community. Our children leave us being able to use technology to create a range of digital content therefore ensuring they are Secondary ready, prepared for a future in the workplace, whatever that might look like, and can be confident digital citizens.

Curriculum Drivers

Environmental Stewardship

Our computing curriculum at St Mary’s fosters responsibility and understanding of our interconnectedness with the environment by integrating sustainability principles and ethical considerations into lessons and additional school projects.

Global Mindset, Diversity and Inclusion

At St Mary’s, our Computing curriculum promotes multicultural awareness, international collaboration, and appreciation for diversity by highlighting the impact of technology across cultures. Our computing curriculum also celebrates differences and creates an inclusive and respectful community by integrating diverse perspectives, promoting collaborative projects, and supporting multicultural events and inclusive teaching practices.

Play-Based Learning

Our computing curriculum promotes play-based learning by integrating interactive tools, gamified challenges, and creative projects that make learning engaging and enjoyable.

Belonging

At St Mary’s, our computing curriculum cultivates a supportive environment where every pupil feels valued and included through inclusive teaching practices, collaborative learning opportunities, and equitable access to resources and support services.

Inspiration and Aspiration

Our computing curriculum encourages curiosity, creativity, and goal-setting for a bright future by fostering hands-on projects, innovative problem-solving tasks and opportunities for self-directed exploration and growth.

Spiritual Development

At St Mary’s, our computing curriculum integrates reflective practices and character education to nurture a sense of purpose and values by encouraging ethical decision-making, self-assessment of personal growth, and consideration of societal impacts.

Communication and Storytelling

Our computing curriculum enhances communication and storytelling by requiring children to work in teams to design and debug projects, fostering clear articulation of ideas and problem-solving processes. Additionally, children present their coding projects and explain their functionalities, honing their ability to convey technical information through compelling narratives.