Computing

Teaching computing at St Mark’s

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. To support the delivery of the computing curriculum the school subscribes to Purple Mash and broadly follows their scheme of work but teachers are able to adjust lessons or use other programs (for example, Scratch) as long as the National Curriculum objectives, as well as those of the school, are being met.

EYFS Implementation

In EYFS, children recognise that a range of technology is used in places such as homes and schools. They select and use technology for particular purposes and are able to complete a simple computer program. They will develop their use of computing vocabulary by using words such as button, switch and application.

KS1 Implementation

In KS1, pupils will develop their understanding of online safety and understand that they should use technology responsibly so that their private information is kept safe. They will learn what to do when something makes them feel uncomfortable and who to talk to about such situations. Pupils will be introduced to algorithms and how they are implemented as programs on digital devices before creating simple programs of their own. Logical reasoning will be used to predict the outcomes of a given set of instructions. Furthermore, pupils will use technology purposefully to create, organise, store, manipulate and retrieve digital content and recognise common uses of information technology beyond school.

KS2 Implementation

In KS2, pupils will understand how to use digital devices and applications in a responsible manner so as not to cause hurt to others or put themselves in danger in the online world. They will design, write and debug programs that accomplish specific goals, including controlling or simulating physical systems whilst learning about coding techniques that enable programmers to write efficient algorithms such as the use of repetition and sequence commands as well as through and the use of variables. There will be opportunities for pupils to use a variety of software (including internet services) on digital devices to design and create content that accomplish given goals, including collecting, analysing, evaluating and presenting data and information. Additionally, children will learn how to use search technologies effectively, appreciating how results are selected and ranked, and be discerning in evaluating digital content (eg fake news). They will also learn the difference between the internet and the worldwide web and understand about the components that enable them to work.