Waingroves Primary School

At Waingroves Primary School, our Computing curriculum is designed to help children to:

• Gain an appreciation of the significance of technology; when and where it is used and how it benefits society. Recognising the growing importance of technology in the modern workplace.
• Develop an understanding of computer use (Digital Literacy) across a range of devices, so that we can comfortably undertake everyday tasks choosing appropriate software. Learning how to efficiently use various input devices e.g; keyboard and mouse.
• To become creators not just consumers of digital content. Learn to find a greater appreciation of the work that goes into creating the content they consume on the internet. Being able to understand the creative process, then attempt to replicate content creators and designers.
• Build our knowledge base whilst showing the real-life applications of coding. Giving a platform to build from and help discover aspects of computing we may not have known before.
• Learn to troubleshoot technical problems both in software and hardware, allowing us to feel independent. To feel confident applying this knowledge to new applications using problem solving skills and experience with prior applications.
• Understand how to navigate the digital landscape safely, identifying our digital footprints and knowing not all sources can be trusted. Being aware of how and when to report concerns both to trusted adults in my community and support services (e.g. CEOP, ThinkUknow).

 Key Learning:

Our ICT curriculum is taught through Purple Mash from Year 1 to Year 6, with Reception children also having access to Mini Mash.  The areas of Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy are all underpinned throughout the year by the teaching of Online Safety.  We work closely with the PSHE curriculum to ensure that our Online Safety work covers the key topics of inappropriate content, contact and conduct, as well as any other relevant issues.  We also celebrate Safer Internet Day across the school.

Key Stage 1 children use Thinkpads to support their learning in Computing and Key Stage 2 children use Chromebooks.  All classes use tablets to take photos and record videos too.  Purple Mash allows home access to all activities, and allows teachers to set particular tasks for children, when appropriate.

We aim to support more able children to deepen their understanding through open ended challenges, and provide opportunities such as becoming Digital Leaders or iVengers to those with a passion for Computing.

The less able children, including SEND children as appropriate, in each class are supported to access the curriculum using tools such as knowledge organisers and pictorial learning mats.

An example of our long-term planning can be seen below:

As a result of the effective implementation of our Computing Curriculum, all children at Waingroves are able to confidently use technology in their everyday lives.  They can apply their skills to complete tasks both for learning and for pleasure, and understand the ways in which technological advancements benefit us. After each unit of work, or at the end of each term, teachers will make a judgement on whether pupils have met, exceeded or are working towards the objectives set for each year group.  This will also provide information for the subject leader and allow for analysis of attainment and progression. Evidence of progression and achievement can be seen in examples of pupils’ work stored on Purple Mash.   In addition, pupils will also be able to apply their skills and knowledge in other areas of learning, and this will be evidenced during personal study. Pupils have a solid understanding of how to minimise risk and stay safe online, and know the steps to take if they come across problems. Children are able to talk about their learning in Computing, using the correct vocabulary, and can talk about how this can be applied to other areas too.

To see a copy of our ICT policy, please visit the Policies page