Our Vision for IT and Computing
“We need technology in every classroom and in every student and teacher’s hand, because it is the pen and paper of our time, and it is the lens through which we experience much of our world.” – David Warlick
Technology is ever changing and evolving. Through teaching computing, we equip our children to participate in a rapidly changing world where work and leisure activities are increasingly transformed by technology.
Computing at Cranford Park is a vital part of the school curriculum which equips our children with the skills to become successful citizens. There is a good investment in technology so that children feel confident and skilled in their use of it. Children can access a variety of devices (computers, laptops, tablets, coding hardware etc.) and we keep up to date with evolving technology and software. Staff feel confident in their delivery of lessons due to regular and up to date training and high quality resources. They use IT as a tool in the classroom, effectively modelling its use in a variety of situations.
Lessons are taught discretely in a spacious IT suite, with opportunities to further develop and apply skills with use of tablets and laptops from within the classroom. The curriculum is fluid so that it changes to support the learning, needs and passions of the children. Apps and programs are up to date and in line with the needs of the children. Dedicated hardware supports children with additional needs. Opportunities for ICT are woven throughout the curriculum. For example, computing links closely with PSHE and RSE. Teaching of online safety ensures children develop a solid understanding of how to keep themselves safe online.
Learning in computing is enjoyed across the school. Teachers have high expectations and quality evidence is presented in a variety of forms. Children use digital and technological vocabulary accurately, alongside a progression in their technical skills. Children see the digital world as part of their world, extending beyond school. They have an awareness of how to conduct themselves in online communities and understand what to do to keep themselves safe online. They are confident and respectful digital citizens, going on to lead happy and healthy digital lives. The Computing leader keeps up to date with research to ensure that ideas are current. Parents and local businesses are invited into school to share with the children how technology impacts their industries.
Our IT and Computing Curriculum
Supported by the Purple Mash and 2Simple resources, we use structured sequences of lessons to ensure all skills required to meet the aims of the National Curriculum. Our subject teaching allows for a broad and deep understanding of computing and how it links to children’s lives. It offers a range of consolidation, challenge and variety. The children are given the opportunity to understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science. We aim to develop analytical problem-solving skills and learn to evaluate and apply information technology. We want to enable the children to become responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information technology.
Lessons contain revision, analysis and problem solving. By using a sequence of lessons we build confidence in our teachers and help secure a love of learning around the digital world, whilst emphasising the need for safety. The lessons build on prior knowledge as well as introducing new skills and challenges. In KS1, the focus is on developing the use of algorithms, programming and how technology can be used safely and purposefully. In KS2, lessons still focus on algorithms, programming and coding but in a more complex way and for different purposes. Children also develop their knowledge of computer networks, internet services and the safe and purposeful use of the internet and technology. Data Handling is featured more heavily in UKS2. Skills learnt through KS1 and LKS2 are used to support data presentation.
Progression
Purple Mash Scheme of Work Year 1 Overview
Purple Mash Scheme of Work Year 2 Overview
Purple Mash Scheme of Work Year 3 Overview
Purple Mash Scheme of Work Year 4 Overview