Computing
OPA Computing Coverage - Skills and Knowledge
Intent
At Orchard Primary Academy we aim to prepare our pupils for their future by giving them the opportunities to gain knowledge and develop skills that will equip them for an ever-changing digital world. Knowledge and understanding of Computing is of increasing importance for children’s futures, both at home and for employment. Our Computing curriculum focuses on a progression of skills in many areas such as coding, networking, using a variety of programmes and using technology safely. These strands are revisited repeatedly through a range of themes during pupil’s time in school to ensure the learning is embedded and skills are successfully developed. Our intention is that Computing also supports children’s creativity and cross curricular learning to engage children and enrich their experiences in school.
Implementation
At Orchard Primary Academy, we give children access to a wide range of good quality resources and provide cross curricular opportunities for children to apply their Computing knowledge and skills. Many of our pupils use tablets to support their learning on a daily basis and access a variety of home learning opportunities online too. Computing sessions are taught (following Purple Mash) ensuring children build up their skills and knowledge within each year group. Online safety is taught within Computing lessons as well as being taught as regular toolbox sessions and online safety theme days. Online safety procedures are communicated with all stakeholders, including parents and governors. In addition, outside agencies are brought in to hold assemblies and workshops throughout the school year, teaching children about key safety issues and how to support good practice in enabling them to keep themselves safe online.
These are the Computing themes that are covered throughout a pupil's time at Orchard Primary Academy:
- Coding and Computational Thinking
- Spreadsheets
- Internet and Email
- Art and Design
- Databases and Graphing
- Writing and Processing
- Communication and Networks
Impact
The implementation of our curriculum ensures that when children leave Orchard Primary Academy, they are competent users of modern technologies with an understanding of how best to make decisions on keeping themselves safe online. They will have gained and developed skills in these areas:
· Computer Science
· Information Technology
· Digital Literacy
· Online Safety
By the time children leave Orchard Primary Academy, they will be able to express themselves and be creative in using digital media and be equipped to apply their skills in Computing to different challenges going forward, in education and future employment.