Computing
Computing Curriculum Knowledge and Skills Building Blocks
In alignment with the 2014 National Curriculum for Computing, Sandringham and West Newton Primary Academy is committed to delivering a high-quality computing education that empowers children to harness computational thinking and creativity to understand and influence the world around them. Our Computing Curriculum is designed to impart essential knowledge regarding the functioning of computers and computer systems, along with their design and programming. We recognise that computational systems can manifest in various forms, and thus, our curriculum encompasses a broad understanding of these systems, irrespective of their inclusion of computers.
By the time our pupils conclude their journey at Sandringham and West Newton, they will have acquired a robust foundation in the three principal domains of the computing curriculum: computer science, information technology, and digital literacy. Each of these areas serves as a pillar supporting our children’s learning and development throughout the key stages, thereby preparing them for future learning and their eventual integration into the workforce.
In computer science, children will engage with concepts of programming and explore the inner workings of digital systems. Information technology lessons will guide pupils in utilising computer systems for storing, retrieving, and transmitting information effectively. Meanwhile, digital literacy will cultivate children’s abilities to critically evaluate digital content and use technology in a manner that is both safe and respectful.
The curriculum objectives are meticulously crafted to promote progression and interconnectivity, ensuring that each child receives a comprehensive and well-rounded education in computing. Furthermore, we emphasise the significance of cross-curricular links, providing enlightening contexts that resonate with other subjects and topics. This interdisciplinary approach not only piques pupils’ interest but also aids in the retention of knowledge, creating lasting educational experiences.
Our implementation strategy at Sandringham and West Newton Primary Academy revolves around dedicated weekly computing lessons. These sessions are structured to foster an in-depth understanding of computing topics over time, facilitating a thorough exploration of concepts and skills. Using resources from ‘Teach Computing’, our teachers plan their lessons with well-established materials that ensure a high standard of delivery.
Each computing lesson is designed to be engaging and interactive, which invigorates the learning environment and enhances pupil participation. With access to a class set of Chromebooks, all year groups are afforded the opportunity to engage with a diverse range of devices and applications for various educational purposes. This extensive access allows learners to develop valuable technical skills and fosters an appreciation for technology as an integral part of their education.
We believe that the integration of computing with other curriculum areas heightens the relevance of the subject matter. For instance, students might use programming to create a game based on a story they have studied in English, or employ digital tools to present their findings from a science project. Such cross-curricular initiatives are designed to motivate pupils and to reinforce connections between different areas of study, thus supporting active participation and deeper understanding.
The implementation of our computing curriculum ensures balanced coverage of all three strands: computer science, information technology, and digital literacy. While every year group engages with each of these areas, the complexity of subject knowledge and skills taught becomes progressively refined as they advance through the key stages. This carefully structured progression allows students to build upon their previous learning effectively.
For example, children in Key Stage 1 are introduced to the concept of algorithms, which provides a foundational understanding that facilitates their transition to the design phase of programming in Key Stage 2. Here, children engage in designing, writing, and debugging their programmes, all while articulating their thought processes related to the algorithms they have employed. This systematised approach cultivates an environment where pupils are not only consumers of technology but also creators, equipped with the skills to design their digital solutions.
The impact of our thorough approach to the computing curriculum is evident in the enthusiastic engagement of our pupils. This is showcased through the quality of their work saved on computers, alongside the documentation of their learning experiences in floor books. Each piece of work signifies the culmination of their understanding and the application of their skills, thus providing concrete evidence of their progress.
Moreover, the subject-specific knowledge acquired during computing lessons at Sandringham and West Newton equips our children with crucial skills that will benefit them in secondary school and further education, as well as in prospective careers. The experiences garnered through our curriculum extend beyond mere subject knowledge; they encompass essential life skills such as research methodologies, the use of presentation and creative tools, and the ability to critically evaluate information.
In nurturing these competencies, we are committed to establishing a strong foundation for our children, enabling them to pursue a wide array of interests and vocational aspirations as they move into the next stages of their educational and professional lives. The ability to navigate the digital landscape with confidence and discernment is an invaluable asset in today’s world, and through our computing curriculum, we seek to provide our children with the tools and understanding necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving technological landscape.
Ultimately, the overarching aim of our computing education at Sandringham and West Newton Primary Academy is to cultivate informed, creative, and capable individuals who are equipped with the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful contribution to society. Through a well-structured and engaging computing curriculum, we endeavour to lay the groundwork for lifelong learning and exploration in an increasingly digital age, thereby preparing our children not only for their immediate educational aspirations but also for the diverse opportunities that lie ahead.