Computing

Computing at Four Lanes Infant School

Computing in Action!

Computing at Four Lanes Infant School

Intent

At Four Lanes Infant School, computing is a highly-valued and important part of our curriculum. We want children to feel confident in a world where technology is always advancing and want to prepare the children to be as ready for the future as they can be. Children are given opportunities to explore different areas of computing, including the use of simple algorithms and different digital applications, which encourages them to become logical thinkers and problem solvers, confidently using a range of technology to achieve desired outcomes in meaningful contexts. Throughout, children are taught to understand the importance of using technology safely, and they learn what action to take if they feel unsafe online.

Implementation

In Early Years our children begin their computing learning journey through play-based exploratory activities that focus on building the children’s curiosity and creativity whilst they are problem-solving. The children are given opportunities to explore technology in a provision-based way, such as by using the interactive white board, engaging with music, using age-appropriate applications on laptops or by using technology-based toys (e.g. tills and telephones). This means that they develop a familiarity with equipment and vocabulary, building the foundations to move onto computing in Key Stage 1. As children progress, they are taught key computing ideas though discrete lessons within overarching topics or themes. These are taken from the National Curriculum Program of Study. Children learn computer science, which enables them to understand what algorithms are, before going on to create their own, and debug and correct their own work. They also learn about how computers work in simple terms, and the impact they have had in the wider world. Developing children’s digital literacy skills is achieved through opportunities to use a range of programs and applications for different purposes, as well as different types of equipment such as tablets, beebots and laptops. Our computing curriculum has strong cross-curricular links with other subjects, including PSHE. In particular, there is a strong focus on the importance of E-safety, which is explicitly taught in all three year groups, and children learn how to use technology safely and are empowered to take appropriate action if they have worries or concerns about what they have seen or experienced.

Impact

When pupils leave us at the end of KS1 they will:

• Understand what algorithms are and be able to create and debug simple programs.
• Be able to predict the behaviour of simple programs.
• Be able to use technology purposefully to create, store, manipulate and retrieve digital content.
• Know about some uses of technology outside of school and in the wider world.
• Understand the importance of keeping personal information private, how to stay safe online and what to do if they are concerned or feel unsure.