At Broad Oak Primary School we aim to equip 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 is used throughout the curriculum.

The Intent, Implementation and Impact of our Computing Curriculum 

Intent

When planning and teaching Computing at Broad Oak, we believe that it is an essential part of the curriculum; a subject that not only stands alone but is woven and is an integral part of all learning. Computing, within schools can therefore provides a wealth of learning opportunities and transferrable skills across other curriculum subjects. In general, computing is a significant part of everyone's daily life and chidren should be at the forefront of new technology, as it is fast becoming a digital world. We as teachers are focused on embedding that first for learning.

Through the study of Computing, children will be able to develop a wide range of skills, knowledge and understanding that will equip them with the key skills required in todays society. Computers and technology are having an increasing impact on everyday life that our children would be at a disadvantage should they not be exposed to a thorough and robust Computing curriculum. Children must be taught in the art form of 'Computational Thinking' in order to provide them with the essential knowledge that will enable them to participate effectively and safely in the digital world beyond their time in school.

Implementation

At Broad Oak, our Computing Curriculum begins in Early Years where children will be exposed to the understanding of internet safety as they explore the world around them and how technology is an everyday part of their learning and understanding of the world.

This will be built upon in Key Stage 1 where the children will learn to understand what algorithms are; how they are implemented as programs on digital devices; and that programs can execute simple instructions. They will be taught to create and debug simple programs and use logical reasoning to predict the behaviour of simple programs. They will be shown how to use a range of technology purposefully to create, organise, store, amend and retrieve digital content as well as recognise common uses of information technology beyond school. They will be taught to use technology safely and respectfully, keeping personal information private; identify where to go for help and support when they have concerns about content or contact on the internet. Each of these skills will be taught through exciting half termly units, and online safety is revisited termly.

In Key Stage 2 the children will design, write and debug programs that achieve specific goals, including controlling or simulating systems. They will use sequence, selection, and repetition in programs, use logical reasoning to explain how some simple algorithms work and correct errors in algorithms and programs. Children will be taught to understand the internet, and the opportunities they offer for communication and knowledge. They will use search technologies effectively, learn to appreciate how results are selected and ranked, and be able to access digital content. Children will be taught to select, use and combine a variety of software on a range of digital devices to create a range of programs, systems and content that accomplish set goals. They will use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly, and be able to recognise acceptable and unacceptable behaviour. They will be able to identify the correct method to report concerns about content and contact.

Impact

After the implementation of this robust Computing Curriculum, we hope that children at Broad Oak will be digitally literate and be ready to join the rest of the world on its digital platform.  They will be equipped, not only with the skills and knowledge to use technology effectively and for their own benefit, but more importantly – using it safely.  The biggest impact we want on our children is that they understand the huge advantages, and also disadvantages, that technology can bring and that they are also aware of how to keep themselves safe online.

As children become more confident in their abilities in Computing, they will become more independent and key life skills such as problem-solving, logical thinking and self-evaluation become second nature.

Across both Key Stages children use laptops, desktop computers, I-pads, programming devices such as beetbots and Crumble, and cameras to consolidate computing across the curriculum. Children also have access to Purple Mash in school so they can develop their skills in control, image manipulation and desktop publishing. Mr Petersons delivers ICT across the the school and also runs our Digital Leaders programme.