Computing

Intent 

‘Computing ensures that pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through, information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.’

DfE, 2013

Mawnan Primary School aims to deliver and engage pupils in a high-quality level of computing education where they will use computational thinking and creativity, responsibly and safely in a world where technology is constantly changing and developing.

Implementation 

‘The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Building on this knowledge and understanding, pupils are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content.’ 

DfE, 2013


Using a range of online supportive teaching resources, Mawan Primary School aims to deliver a broad and balanced computing curriculum which incorporates cross curricular links from science, technology, mathematics and PSHE. 


In Key stage 1 children are taught the basics of computing such as understanding what algorithms are and how they are used in programmes on digital devices.  Pupils will learn how to create and debug simple programs using logical reasoning skills. Finally, through supportive teaching and collaborative learning children will be taught how to create, organise, store, manipulate and retrieve digital content and recognise common uses of information technology beyond school. 


In Key stage 2 children will use Scratch, Code.org and Micro:bit to develop a greater understanding of how to design, write and debug programs that accomplish specific goals. Pupils will use sequence, selection, and repetition in programs and work with variables and various forms of input and output. By the end of Key Stage 2 pupils will use logical reasoning to explain how some simple algorithms work and to detect and correct errors in algorithms and programs.

Digital Citizenship

Everyone who uses electronic devices to go online and interact with others is participating in a digital world as a digital citizen. Just like good citizenship is important at school and work, so is good digital citizenship important when online. 

Our belief is that the internet, when utilised responsibly is a positive learning tool for pupils. 

As supportive learning practitioners we strive to deliver a balanced approach to computer safety by ensuring that we promote positive learning opportunities, as well as responding to any possible risks associated with technology and the internet. Through collaborative learning experiences, delivered on a termly basis, we equip pupils with the knowledge and understanding to stay safe as digital citizens and how to navigate a digital world effectively.

Impact 
 

Through experiencing the Mawnan computing curriculum, our children become confident digital citizens who able to join the rest of the world on its digital platform.  They are well equipped, not only with the skills and knowledge to use technology effectively and for their own benefit, but more importantly – safely and smartly. 

The biggest impact of our computing curriculum is that our children understand the consequences of using the internet and they are aware of how to keep themselves safe online.

As children become more confident in their abilities in computing, they become more independent and key life skills such as problem-solving, logical thinking and self-evaluation become second nature.