Computing & ICT

Intent

At St Mary’s we believe that computing and online safety are vital in an ever-changing digital world.

We are proud that we use technology to educate, excite and engage the children, whilst also enabling them to become responsible, competent and creative users of information technology. We aim to teach our children to be confident using digital technologies to support their learning and communication skills, whilst also being safe online.

Implementation

Through the sequence of lessons we teach, we intend to inspire pupils to develop a love of the digital world, see its place in their future and give teachers confidence. Cross-curricular links are also important in supporting other areas of learning. Our lesson plans and resources help children to build on prior knowledge at the same time as introducing new skills, problem solving and challenges. In KS1, the focus is on developing the use of algorithms, programming and how technology can be used safely and purposefully. In KS2, lessons still focus on algorithms, programming and coding but in a more complex way and for different purposes. Children also develop their knowledge of computer networks, internet services and the safe and purposeful use of the internet and technology.

Each classroom has an interactive whiteboard and a visualizer to make learning assessable to all. We also have 3 laptop trollies and a set of tablets for the children to use. Key stage 2 children update our Twitter account to help them learn about online safety and the information that can be shared online. We have been awarded the Naace ICT mark award 3 times, with both Ofsted and Naace recognizing that “teaching has many strengths across a range of subjects including information and communication technology (ICT). Pupils are well prepared for the next stage in their education.”

Impact

Learning in computing will be enjoyed across the school. Teachers will have high expectations and quality evidence will be presented in a variety of forms. Children will use digital and technological vocabulary accurately, alongside a progression in their technical skills. They will be confident using a range of hardware and software and will produce high-quality purposeful products. Children will see the digital world as part of their world, extending beyond school, and understand that they have choices to make. They will be confident and respectful digital citizens going on to lead happy and healthy digital lives.

“The real power of interactive technologies is that they let us learn in ways that aren’t otherwise possible or practical” – David Lassner