Sherwood Park Primary School

‘Every child has an enquiring mind about the world and their place in it.'

At Sherwood Park the intent of our Computing curriculum is to deliver a curriculum which is accessible to all and maximises the development of every child’s ability and academic achievement. The curriculum will enable the children to discover new technologies, learn key skills and understand how to use and apply this knowledge to impact their own work and prepare them to take part in the development of today’s rapidly changing world.

Intent

At Sherwood Park, we believe that Computing is an essential part of our curriculum and an important part of everyday life. We want our children to become confident, creative and responsible users and creators of technology, equipped with the knowledge and skills they need for their future.

Our Computing curriculum develops the three key areas of Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy. Through these, children learn how computers and networks work, how to use technology purposefully. They also learn how to create, communicate and solve problems using digital tools.

We place computational thinking at the heart of our curriculum. Children learn to approach problems logically through skills such as algorithms, decomposition, pattern recognition, programming, testing and debugging.

We also place a strong emphasis on online safety and responsible digital citizenship. Children learn how to protect their personal information, recognise risks online, make responsible choices and know where to go for help.

Implementation

Computing is taught progressively from the Early Years through to Key Stage 2, following the National Curriculum for Computing.

In the Early Years, children begin to explore technology as part of their understanding of the world and develop an age-appropriate awareness of using technology safely.

In Key Stage 1, children develop their understanding of algorithms and programming, learning to create and debug simple programs and use logical reasoning to predict outcomes. They also learn to use technology to create, organise, store and retrieve digital content.

In Key Stage 2, children build on these foundations by designing, writing and debugging programs using sequence, selection, repetition and variables. They develop their understanding of computer systems, networks, the internet, data and information, while learning to select and combine digital tools to create purposeful content.

Online safety is embedded throughout the curriculum. Children learn to use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly, including how to recognise and report concerns relating to content, contact and conduct online.

Impact

Our aim is for children to leave Sherwood Park as digitally literate, computationally confident and responsible users of technology.

Children will develop the ability to:

• think logically and solve problems;
• design, create, test and debug programs;
• use digital technology creatively and purposefully;
• understand how computers, networks and digital systems work;
• evaluate digital information and content critically;
• use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly;
• protect their privacy and personal information;
• recognise and report concerns online.

Through Computing, we want our children not simply to use technology, but to understand it, create with it, question it and use it responsibly.