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Computing

Intent:
At Codicote School, we recognise that computing capability is an essential skill for life, enabling children to participate in a rapidly changing world. The use of technologies gives immediate access to ideas and experiences from a wide range of people, communities and cultures. We believe that the skills across computing should be integrated and embedded within all areas of the curriculum, with knowledge and skills developed sequentially in order for them to prepare for the evolving technologies ahead. We encourage digital literacy in all pupils in preparation for their future, alongside the use of new technologies to support children’s learning in a number of contexts.

With the impact of technology and media in everyday life, children of a younger age are having access to mobile phones and the internet. Therefore, we provide robust teaching about e-safety throughout the school.

Implementation:
In the Early Years Foundation Stage, children are taught computing through a range of different approaches in real life situations, including programmable devices and use of every day technologies. We follow the National Curriculum for Computing for Key stage 1 and 2 and use the Purple Mash scheme of work. The scheme is split into two parts: Digital Literacy and Computer Science. Each year group has different units which get progressively more challenging.  As the children move through school, they learn to use a range of programmes in appropriate curriculum contexts, as well as the skills needed for coding and programming.

Keeping children safe is at the forefront of everything we do, therefore implementing e-safety guidelines and knowledge to the children is crucial to keeping them safe while online. As well as regular e-safety lessons, threaded through the curriculum, we also hold an annual e-safety day, when the whole school focusses on the same theme at age appropriate levels. Visiting speakers provide training for staff and run an information evening for parents.

The school has an IT suite with sufficient computers for a whole class. Classes are timetabled for its use, and can also use it to support different curriculum areas. In addition, there are class sets of mobile devices for use in classrooms. The school employs a technician to ensure that all resources are working appropriately. There are two subject leads, who are both experienced and skilled in leading the curriculum and providing training and support.

The curriculum is enhanced through opportunities beyond the school day, such as clubs for coding and making animations.

Impact:
Children enjoy computing and are skilled and confident in the use and application in their Computing lessons, and the wider curriculum. They have a sound understanding of all aspects of Computer Science by the time they leave school and are ready for the next stage in learning.

Skills Progression in Computing