Computing
To create an engaging and motivating Computing curriculum, which will enable our learners to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Children will make deep links with mathematics, science and design & technology using imaginative ways to widen their learning opportunities. By becoming digitally literate, children will be able to safely use, express themselves and develop ideas through information and communication technology at school. St Joseph’s will provide the tools for children to use communication technology safety at home and when they leave school.
Curriculum
Our curriculum is delivered using the KAPOW scheme of learning, which divides the National Curriculum for Computing into three key strands: Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy. These strands run across the year and throughout each topic.
The Computing curriculum at St. Joseph's has been designed as a spiral curriculum, with the following principles in mind:
- Cyclical: Pupils revisit the five key areas throughout KS1 and KS2.
- Increasing depth: Each time a key area is revisited, it is covered with greater complexity.
- Prior knowledge: Upon returning to each key area, prior knowledge is utilised so pupils can build on previous foundations, rather than starting again.
Online Safety
Nothing is more important to us than the safety and welfare of our children. Our children not only need to be protected by adults when online, but it is also crucial that there is clear teaching of online safety so children know how they can protect themselves when online.
By developing this understanding, we are ensuring children become responsible users of the internet: learning how to manage emotions online; what information should/should not be shared online; understanding how the truth can sometimes be distorted and ultimately the long term impacts of positive and negative behaviour online.
Our children should not be scared or frightened to use the internet, but through rigorous teaching they will become informed and confident in being online in a positive manner, in an increasing online world.
Online safety is not taught as a single topic but throughout the year. This ensures it remains at the forefront of children's minds when they are using any computing device.
Computing in Early Years (Reception)
Our Early Years Computing curriculum is a natural precursor to our Year 1 Computing lessons. It is designed especially for the Reception classroom and is based on the theory of play-based, hands-on fun!
Whilst the technology strand is no longer a specific area in the new EYFS framework (2021), having the opportunity to develop computing skills at an early age can foster interest and confidence in technology and give pupils an advantage going into KS1. Our EYFS units focus on the same key areas and link to Primary and Specific Areas of the EYFS framework 2021 and Development Matters Guidance.
Computer Room Renovations
We are lucky to have a new Computer Room, with our old equipment being replaced! This means all children can access Computing resources that work well, including computers, laptops and ipads! Below are some pictures of the renovations!