Computing
Computing Lead - Mrs Wainman
Computing Subject Statement
Computing is changing the lives of everyone, especially children and young people. Through the teaching of Computing, we equip children to participate in a rapidly-changing world where work and leisure activities are increasingly transformed by technology.
Computing enables rapid access to ideas and experiences from a wide range of communities and cultures. Using Computing tools pupils can: find, explore, analyse, exchange and present information. We enable them to find, explore, analyse, exchange and present information. We also focus on developing the skills necessary for children to be able to use information in a discriminating and effective way.
Increased Computing capability promotes initiative and independent learners. It must be our intent to enable all children in the school to develop the knowledge, skills and understanding that will enable them to function in this digital age. Computing skills are a major factor in enabling children to be confident, creative and independent learners.
At St.Margaret's we use the Purple Mash programme to deliver our Computing curriculum from Year 1 - Year 6.
Due to the 2021 EYFS curriculum update, computing is now not a specific a EYFS learning area but we feel it is important to expose children to different technologies. This could be the interactive whiteboard, using ipads or looking at and exploring a range of technology in the home corner.
Our LTP and progression documents therefore begin from Year 1.
National Curriculum
Please see below for the National Curriculum programmes of study for Computing.
Computing Long Term Plan
Computing Progression of Knowledge and Skills
Computing in the Early Years Foundation Stage
E - Safety
E-safety is taught as part of the computing curriculum and focuses on helping children to use the internet safely. This may include issues such as keeping information private, cyberbullying, stranger danger and behaving respectfully online.
It can be difficult knowing where to start when it comes to helping your child stay safe online.
Netaware is a fantastic resource which gives a simple overview and risk rating of the most popular apps and games that children are using. It can also be a great conversation starter with children about what they like to do online and how they stay safe.
You may feel uncertain of how to keep your child safe online and how to deal with any issues that may arise. The NSPCC has published a short document of guidance called Share Aware which you can view and download by clicking on the image below.
https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-safety/
As part of the partnership between the NSPCC and O2, any parent or carer can take a device in to any O2 shop (they don’t have to be a customer) and ask for an appointment with a guru, who can show them how to set up safety settings.
There is also a helpline that offers advice and support about online safety
Tel: 0808 800 5002
For more information on helping your children to stay safe online, select one of the options below.
How can I protect my children?
Talking to your child about staying safe online
Online games: helping children to play safe
How to set up parental controls