Computing

General Statement

The Blue School recognises that children are growing up in a rapidly developing technological world and that understanding information technology is a vital ‘life skill’ in modern society. Therefore, The Blue School believes that all children are entitled to gain the necessary skills and understanding as outlined in ‘The National Computing Curriculum’ to better prepare them for each stage of their learning. We believe that Computing should be an enjoyable and positive experience for all and that it not only increases competence but also builds confidence.

We give each child the opportunity to use Computing to find things out, develop ideas and make things happen; exchange and share information and to review, modify and evaluate their work as it progresses.

We use a wealth of software packages and hardware in order to gain the most out of Computing across the school, such as Espresso and Education City for teaching Coding.

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National Curriculum Recommendations

Under the National Curriculum recommendations, by the end of Key Stage Two, pupils at The Blue School will be able to:

design, write and debug programs that accomplish specific goals, including controlling or simulating physical systems; solve problems by decomposing them into smaller parts
use sequence, selection, and repetition in programs; work with variables and various forms of input and output
use logical reasoning to explain how some simple algorithms work, and to detect and correct errors in algorithms and programs
understand computer networks including the internet; how they can provide multiple services, such as the world wide web; and the opportunities they offer for communication and collaboration
use search technologies effectively, appreciate how results are selected and ranked, and be discerning in evaluating digital content
select, use and combine a variety of software (including internet services) on a range of digital devices to design and create a range of programs, systems and content that accomplish given goals, including collecting, analysing, evaluating and presenting data and information
use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly; recognise acceptable/unacceptable behaviour; identify a range of ways to report concerns about content and contact.

Keeping up with an ever changing world

Computing is developing so fast and the children are becoming more advanced in relation to their Computing skills. The children leave The Blue School with a range of skills.

Laptops, computers and other technological aids are used throughout the school. The children are encouraged to communicate ideas and information in a variety of forms, where appropriate, using equipment and computer software to enhance their learning.

Computing Across the Curriculum

Teachers across the school use technology to support other areas of the curriculum as well as their timetabled Computing slot.

Computing is taught as a specific subject in Key Stage One and Key Stage Two and classes are given slots for the Computer Suite. All classes (including Early Years) have a double session timetabled weekly.