Computing

Technology is embedded in today’s world and this trend will accelerate. This offers children tremendous opportunities but could also present many dangers.

At Moordown St John’s, our objective is to provide the children with a solid foundation and knowledge of the three core units of the national curriculum, namely Digital Information Technology (DIT), Creative Media and Computer Science. In addition, we believe our role is to protect children by raising awareness of possible dangers associated with a digital world.

Our aim is for the children at Moordown St John’s to be actively aware and make informed choices online. They will be able to use computers as a tool rather than a requirement, taking control of their own choices when using technology and becoming safe and respectful learners.

Linking with the school’s values - The Fruits of the Spirit - our aim within each lesson is to be as interactive as possible to stimulate the joy of learning; to share experiences in order to promote kindness and provide opportunities to work independently which engenders patience and self-control.

 Intent: What we expect children to learn

 The curriculum strands have been named to ensure consistency throughout the key stages in preparation for a continued transition into KS3 and KS4.     

• Computer Science: Children learn how contextual programs reflect logical reasoning. Children will use key vocabulary to understand and better communicate.
• Creative Media: By teaching children about the variety of software available, children learn how to design and create content that achieves a specific purpose.
• Digital Information Technology: Children learn how to use technology for a given goal as a presentation tool. We teach children how computer networks are used in and out of school and the different ways that databases can be used to present information.
• Online Safety: Children learn skills to protect their online identity. Moordown St John’s teaches children the importance of using technology safely and respectfully, viewing it as a useful tool for learning and communication.

 Implementation: How we teach the subject

We have a structured programme that allows us flexibility to pick and choose modules that fit our curriculum and school ethos. The units of learning are consistent across each year group to provide continuity and to build on prior learning. This will deepen their subject knowledge year on year.

Each year group will focus on one of the three key strands each term, with Online Safety embedded within every Computing lesson.

Teachers deliver lessons that engage and challenge. Through scaffolding and demonstration followed by children working independently in a practical manner, skills are taught and then consolidated.

 Impact: How we evaluate the knowledge and skills they have learned  

Our children will have a broad understanding of computer science, creative media and be competent in the skills involved with DIT.

They will also be good citizens by understanding the benefits of a digital world alongside the risks involved in remote communication and the internet.

By focusing on the three curriculum units on an ongoing, repetitive basis, children will be well prepared for computer education and life after Moordown St John’s. They will be secondary school ready as their education is consistent and the curriculum strands follow suit from Key Stage 1 through to Key Stage 4.

Progression Map: