At St Robert Southwell, we believe that Computing is an integral part of preparing children to live in a world where technology is continuously and rapidly evolving. We aim to develop inquisitive and digitally literate children, who are able to navigate and use technology confidently and safely. We work to equip children with the tools and knowledge to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world in which they live.

We provide opportunities for all children to access, use and explore ICT throughout their time in school. We model and educate our children about how to use technology positively, responsibly and safely. Children are encouraged to develop their Computing skills not just through Computing lessons, but across the curriculum to make learning creative and accessible. We engage children in a range of skills through real life and hands-on learning experiences in the classroom and encourage to them develop them at home.

Implementation

The Computing Curriculum at St Robert Southwell follows the objectives outlined in the National Curriculum for England and is carefully planned and tailored to meet the needs of our children. In line with the National Curriculum, we aim to ensure that all children:

• can understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation,
• have practical experience of writing computer programmes and solving problems that may occur in programme development,
• can evaluate and apply information technology analytically to problem solve,
• are responsible, safe, competent, confident and creative users of information and communication technology.

At St Robert Southwell, every child has hands on experience of computing through the use of iPads and other technologies such as BeeBots, MicroBits and Crumbles. High quality teaching of Computing, from Year 1 through to Year 6, utilises a combination of practical lessons and theory lessons designed to promote discussion and nurture understanding. EYFS explores computing in their curriculum through concepts such as understanding instructions, position and direction, exploring maps and problem solving. Computing is used as a cross-curriculum tool and permeates most other areas of the curriculum – with especially close links with Mathematics, Science, and Design and Technology. The core of Computing is computer science, in which children are taught the principles of information and computing, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. We also teach the use of popular processing programmes such as: Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, OneNote and Excel. Children use these programs to process and handle data.

All children from Years 2-6 have access to an individual iPad, with their own login ID and password. Children also have their own Office 365 accounts and can access Teams Office 365 from home to support home learning. EYFS utilise Tapestry for home-school contact, the sharing of their learning, and assessment. KS1 use SeeSaw for classroom learning. All classes have an interactive whiteboard, and many also have visualisers, and make use of online interactive resources in lessons. Apps and programmes are available to support classroom learning and home learning, providing engaging learning opportunities. IPads and other technologies are also used to help teachers adapt learning and be more inclusive for SEND children.

Computing units are taught every half term, using Teach Computing to provide a wide range of topics such as coding, debugging, physical computing, data processing and analysis, video making, digital photography, digital art and e-safety. Teaching and learning facilitates progression across year levels.

E-Safety

The school takes e-safety very seriously and is aware of the health and safety issues surrounding children’s use of ICT. We ensure that children have a safe environment in which to learn and that effective filters are in place to safeguard children. Internet access is planned to enrich and extend learning activities across the curriculum. However, we acknowledge the need to ensure that all children are responsible and safe users of the Internet and other communication technologies both in school and outside of school. E-safety is discretely taught each half term by class teachers, revisited regularly and is supplemented through assemblies and Safer Internet Day activities. Children also learn about rights and responsibilities when using the Internet.

At St Robert Southwell, children enjoy and value Computing and using technology. Children discuss, reflect and appreciate the impact of Computing has on their learning, development and well-being. Children understand that finding the right balance with technology is key to effective learning and a healthy life-style. The way children showcase, share, celebrate and publish their work will best show the impact of our curriculum. We also look for evidence through reviewing children’s knowledge and skills digitally through pupil voice and tools like Teams, SeeSaw, Forms, and Kahoot and observing learning regularly. Our children become confident users of technology and are able to navigate the internet safely. Children’s work is celebrated in class and in assemblies.

E-Safety

Children are able to use the internet safely at school and home. They develop a clear understanding of the risks associated with online activities, such as cyberbullying, phishing, and data privacy breaches. By embedding e-safety principles, children cultivate critical thinking skills to assess online content and interactions, fostering safer digital habits. This knowledge equips them to manage their digital footprint responsibly and engage with online communities positively.