Computing Curriculum Overview
At Havelock our aim is to build a whole school community that is confident and competent to use all forms of ICT whilst also developing increasingly sophisticated computing program skills.
Our aim is that computing programming becomes a natural resource within learning so that children build their confidence to use it to a level where they are able to make informed and discerning choices about developing their skills across the curriculum and in coding and programming.
Through the computing schemes of work, we aim to allow all children to access and achieve specific computing skills, which again can be applied and consolidated across the curriculum.
Computers are now part of everyday life. For most of us, technology is essential to our lives, at home and at work. ‘Computational thinking’ is a skill children must be taught if they are to be ready for the workplace and able to participate effectively in this ever changing digital world.
Our schemes of work are based on the 2014 Primary Curriculum CAS (Computers at school). They fall into three main areas:
- Computer science,
- Information technology
- Digital literacy.
Pupils learn the basics of coding, using the espresso coding modules that can also be accessed at home. They learn how to use search technology effectively and use a range of programs to collect, evaluate and present data and design, create and present their own ideas. They learn how to evaluate internet content and how to work together using technology.
An integral and important part of our digital literacy curriculum is e-safety, enabling children to learn how to use technology responsibly and respectfully.
As well as specific computing lessons, we have many lessons where computing skills are taught within the context of another subject, for example research skills for a history presentation, collecting data in maths, science or PE, or the use of digital manipulation and drawing packages in art and DT. We also use our computing resources to support the children’s development in reading and maths through subscriptions to bug club, education city and London Grid for Learning which provide personalised activities for children which are also accessible at home.