Computing
Computing
“We are all now connected by the Internet, like neurons in a giant brain.”
– Stephen Hawking
“A high-quality computing education equips pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Computing has deep links with mathematics, science, and design and technology, and provides insights into both natural and artificial systems. 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. Computing also 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.” [National Curriculum 2014]
Why is Computing important at St. George’s?
At St. George’s, our intention is to prepare our children for their future in an increasingly digital world. Technology is already a part of everyone’s daily lives, and as it changes and evolves rapidly, we believe that it is more vital than ever for children to develop their computing skills confidently and safely. By the time they leave our school, the children will have gained key knowledge and skills in the three areas of the computing curriculum: digital literacy (finding, sorting and evaluating information), information technology (learning to store, receive and send information), and computer science (including programming).
What does Computing look like at St. George’s?
As well as computing lessons that explicitly teach the areas outlined above, school devices are used across the curriculum to enhance learning in other subjects whilst simultaneously building on children’s digital literacy and information technology skills. The computer programming elements of our scheme from Kapow allows children to develop some important transferable skills: including their resilience, problem-solving and critical thinking – all part of the growth mindset approach that is encouraged at St. George’s.
Our curriculum is structured so that each area is revisited repeatedly throughout the children’s time at school. This ensures that their learning is embedded, and that skills can be successfully developed whilst building on this prior knowledge. Online safety is also prioritized: this is taught in an age-appropriate way to every year group. By showing children the importance of being safe online, we enable our children to become conscious, respectful and responsible digital citizens.
Please click on the link below for virtual versions of our most recent e-safety assemblies from the UK Safer Internet Centre
https://saferinternet.org.uk/safer-internet-day/safer-internet-day-2022/virtual-assemblies
Computing Key Skills & Knowledge by Unit
Computing National Curriculum Coverage
Computing Progression of Knowledge & Skills