Our Vision for Computing

 “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

At our school we aim to ensure all pupils:

  • have digital skills that enable them to fully participate in the modern digital world.
  • are equipped with the confidence and skills to use digital tools and technologies throughout their lives.
  • know how computing knowledge and skills are important in their role as global citizens and how it will prepare them for the world of work.
  • learning is enhanced and enriched through the use of computing/IT, in other areas of the curriculum
  • develop the understanding of how to use computers and digital tools safely, respectfully and responsibly.
  • get hands on experience and the opportunity to ‘have a go’ therefore building digital resilience.
  • have opportunities to problem solve and understand how technology and computing has/ can enhance our lives.
  • enjoy computing, engaging and enthusing a spark and an interest.

At St Mary’s we believe that Computing is essential to our future. Pupils should know that the world has evolved because of the technological and digital solutions that have been generated for everyday life and for helping us understand the world around us. They need to be aware of the changes in technology that enhance our everyday lives as well as how technology plays a role in protecting our lives.

Alongside Science, Maths and Design and Technology, Computing is a tool that can make us even better connected, supporting and helping with problems that are impacting on people around the world like adverting disasters, for example predicting earthquakes and tsunamis. Therefore, in an increasingly technologically and scientifically advanced world, our pupils’ need to be digitally literate to succeed and know what opportunities they have, to make an impact on their futures.

We aim to give pupils opportunities to think, learn, solve problems and make informed decisions. Having these skills will develop critical and independent thinking, contributing to the success in many curriculum areas and life skills. Making links to real life issues and through practical opportunities, we hope to inspire future computer scientists.

Computing is taught using a blocked curriculum approach. This ensures children are able to develop depth in their knowledge and skills over the duration of each of their computing topics. At St Mary’s we use the ‘Teach Computing’ scheme, funded and recognised by the Department for Education. Knowledge and skills are mapped across each topic and year group to ensure systematic progression. We have iPads, laptops and chrome books available for all year groups so that they have the opportunity to use a range of devices and programs for many purposes across the wider curriculum, as well as in discrete computing lessons. The implementation of the curriculum ensures a balanced coverage of computer science, information technology and digital literacy. The children will have experiences of all three strands in each year group, but the subject knowledge imparted becomes increasingly specific and in depth, with more complex skills being taught, thus ensuring that learning is built upon.

For more information on our chosen scheme of work please use the following link: https://teachcomputing.org/curriculum

Computing Curriculum Map