Computing
Subject Leader: Mr Langley
Computing - Intent
At Stella Maris we intend that children should master Computing to such an extent that they can go on to have careers within Computing and make use of Computing effectively in their everyday lives. We want to create curious, creative learners who will be able to adapt to an ever changing digital world.
Our children will be taught to use technology responsibly and carefully, being mindful of how their behaviour, words and actions can affect others.
Our children will be taught Computing in a way that ensures progression of skills, and follows a sequence to build on previous learning.
Our children will gain experience and skills of a wide range of technology in a way that will enhance their learning opportunities, enabling them to use technology across a range of subjects to be creative and solve problems, ensuring they make progress.
Computing - Implementation
We follow a broad and balanced, custom written Computing curriculum that builds on previous learning and provides both support and challenge for learners. We follow a Computing scheme that ensures progression of skills and covers all aspects of the Computing curriculum. Our curriculum is divided across three main learning areas, Computer Sciences, Information Technology and Digital Literacy.
Our approach to Computing Sciences is to use the Discovery Education Coding Scheme, which introduces children to progressively complex coding and programming skills, mainly focusing on block coding. This resource also allows identifying gifted and talented children from across the school and challenging them with real world programming languages such as HTML and Python.
Information Technology is introduced and taught using real world programs and software such as Microsoft Office suite for word processing needs, garage band and audacity for music creation and paint, paint3d and Photoshop for image creation and manipulation. In EYFS and KS1, learning is also supported through the use of 2simple.
Digital Literacy has a focus on online safety and the correct attitudes towards technology. We also take the time to teach about the importance of self-protection and privacy in Digital Literacy. Learning in this area is support by the resources of CEOP and ThinkuKnow as well as Childnet.
All classes will have a scheduled Computing lesson each week or will be taught Computing alongside other curriculum subjects.
We want to ensure that Computing is embedded in our whole school curriculum and that opportunities for enhancing learning by using technology are always taken.
Computing - Impact
Our children will leave Stella Maris with the knowledge and skills to be confident and enthusiastic computing learners that will support their future learning. They will enjoy and value computing, knowing why they are doing things and not just how. Children will talk confidently about their work and transfer their skills across the curriculum.
Children will also leave us as well rounded and thoughtful digital citizens, using and applying British and Catholic values in the ever growing online world, whilst most importantly knowing when and how to be safe. Children from Stella Maris will also be aware of different digital mediums and resources to support, enabling and expanding learning opportunities both in school and at home.