Computing intent

At St Thomas of Canterbury, we aim to prepare our learners for their future by giving them the opportunities to gain knowledge and develop skills that will equip them for an ever-changing digital world.  

It is our intention to enable children to find, explore, analyse, exchange and present information. We want our children to know, remember and understand more in computing so that they leave our school computer literate. Computing skills are vital and enable children to be confident, creative and independent learners that are able to express themselves.  

We aim to have a computing curriculum that develops pupil’s learning and results in the acquisition of knowledge of the world around them. We want pupils to understand and apply the fundamental principles of computer science, including logic, algorithms and data representation and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs in order to solve such problems.

Furthermore, we want to equip children to fully understand the importance of using technology safely, responsibly and respectfully. We also want them to feel confident about how to report any concerns they may have when online. It is our intent that pupils will be able to evaluate new or unfamiliar technologies, apps, website etc.    

Implementation

A clear and effective, scheme of work that provides coverage in line with the National Curriculum.?Teaching and learning should facilitate progression across all key stages within the strands of digital literacy, information technology and computer science.

Teaching and learning should facilitate progression across all key stages within the strands of digital literacy, information technology and computer science. Children will have the opportunity to explore and respond to key issues such as digital communication, cyber-bullying, online safety, security, plagiarism and social media.

Access to resources which aid in the acquisition of skills and knowledge.

Children will have access to the hardware (computers, tablets, programmable equipment) and software that they need to develop knowledge and skills of digital systems and their applications.

Wider Curriculum links and opportunities for the safe use of digital systems are considered in wider curriculum planning.

The importance of online safety is shown through displays within the learning environment and computer suite.

Parents are informed when issues relating to online safety arise and further information/support is provided if required.

As well as opportunities underpinned within the scheme of work, children will also spend time further exploring the key issues associated with online safety.

Impact

Our pupils?will be confident users of technology, able to use it to accomplish a wide variety of goals, both at home and in school. They will have a secure and comprehensive knowledge of the implications of technology and digital systems. This is important in a society where technologies and trends are rapidly evolving. Our children will be able to apply the British values of democracy, tolerance, mutual respect, rule of law and liberty when using digital systems.