Curriculum Statement for Computing

At St Oswald’s, our computing curriculum prepares children for a rapidly changing, technology-driven world. We teach them to find, analyse, share and present information safely and responsibly, while developing effective problem-solving and reasoning skills. Using tools such as Scratch, Google Docs, and video editors, pupils gain practical experience in programming, debugging and applying key computing principles like logic, algorithms and data representation. Our aim is to equip children with the confidence, creativity and independence to thrive as learners in the modern world.

Intent

Children will be taught to use a range of computer software, including spreadsheets, databases, email systems, word processing, multimedia presentations, app development, control programming and coding.

The children at St Oswald’s have many opportunities to practise the skills they learn in computing in various other subjects in our curriculum. The different skills we teach are revisited so children can build on their learning regularly.

St Oswald’s children will understand and use the correct vocabulary when talking about computing, such as: programming, e.g. algorithm, debug, input, output, and variable.

We have a focus on online safety when teaching computing at St Oswald’s, the children learn how to use mobile technology and the internet safely. Online safety is not only taught in computing lessons, but in PSHE lessons, assemblies and workshops.

Implementation

Children engage in weekly computing lessons that are often linked with their Class topic (if the link is clear). Children are supported and stretched through the different topics which build upon previously learned knowledge and skills. Those who are working at greater depth are able to broaden their knowledge and skills within these units. Skills established in computing lessons are used throughout the curriculum to support and enhance the learning.

The children at St Oswald’s have access to individual Chromebooks, these are used in a variety of subject areas as well as computing, strengthening their ability to apply the skills they have learnt. The software that is used in St Oswald’s is modern and relevant and are usually accessible for pupils to use at home to develop extracurricular engagement.

We have a large focus on Online Safety at St Oswald’s. Children receive regular teaching about online safety. This comes as a unit of work in each year group through the computing modules. Children also have regular opportunities through assemblies and workshops to learn about the importance of online safety. Within school, children are able to use the internet through a secure filtered system. We have helpful links on our school website that will assist parents in finding helpful tips and advice about keeping their child safe online.

Impact

Children understand why they are learning the topics that we have in computing and can link their learning to the wider world.

Children are able to articulate themselves using acquired vocabulary from the computing unit modules.

Children can apply their learning to new problems in order to solve them, they can also explain how and why they solved them.

Pupils are confident at explaining their work to people and their work is at an expected or greater standard.