Computing

Intent

At Grestone Academy, we believe that computing is an integral part of modern-day life and therefore we aim to equip children with the knowledge and skills required to thrive in a rapidly changing technological world.

 By the time they leave our school, children will have gained key knowledge and skills in the three main areas of the computing curriculum:

• computer science (programming and understanding how digital systems work)
• information technology (using computer systems to store, retrieve and send information)
• digital literacy (evaluating digital content and using technology safely and respectfully).

We hope that due to regularly being exposed to ‘computational thinking’ in how to approach devices in a logical way, children will be able to apply their understanding to any technology that they encounter either now or in their lives after Grestone.

At Grestone Academy, we believe that a clear and effective scheme of work that provides coverage in line with the National Curriculum is essential to meet the requirements of our children in order for them to thrive.

Implementation

To ensure that children are being exposed to high-quality lessons focusing on the skills and knowledge required we use the ‘Purple Mash’ scheme of work for computing. This ensures that all key areas of the computing curriculum are taught and revisited during a child's primary school years. It also provides scaffolded support for learners of all ages and abilities including those with SEND. The scheme is designed to allow our children to build on their learning year after year, building on their vocabulary and to also practice skills where they may not be as confident and, progress their knowledge and skills even further.

We strive to keep children safe online and provide them with the knowledge and tools to do so. We will also empower parents, carers and the wider community with up to date information regarding keeping children safe online.

Children to take part in a competition on who can make the most informative E-Safety Poster.

•  Dedicated E-Safety Week.
•  Parents are spoken to on an annual basis with regards to E-Safety.
•  E-Safety integrated within Computing Lessons

The successful teaching and use of computing are evident in the enthusiasm our children have for the use of technology to aid and enhance their learning and in the work produced with the use of computers and ensuring we do this by giving our children the opportunities to apply their computational skills in different curriculum areas.

Impact

• Work completed on Purple Mash is saved for teachers and senior leaders to check.
• A selection of children from every class are chosen annually for a pupil voice meeting where we speak to them about e-safety to check their understanding from their learning that year.