Here at The Grove Primary School, we realise what a huge role technology plays in children’s lives and how it is continually evolving in modern society changing the way we work, shop and even control our homes. We have developed our computing curriculum so that children have a chance to gain an understanding of how, where and when technology is used in modern society and how they can apply that knowledge to their everyday lives. We recognise that computing is not a standalone subject and should be interwoven into all other subject areas.
We deliver a computing curriculum that:
• Allows children to see the huge benefits of technology within their lives.
• Allows children a hands-on experience and is not solely limited to using devices.
• Develops children’s computational thinking and problem-solving skills giving children the ability to ‘think like a computer’ whilst highlighting that also that computers can be limited in their abilities.
• Allows children to make mistakes, encouraging them how to be problem solvers.
• Shows children how to use technology safely and how to manage their digital footprint effectively.
A carefully planned out medium term plan for computing has been developed using the National Curriculum as a foundation for topic areas. The computing curriculum is split up into 3 key topic areas; Computer Science, Digital Literacy and Online Safety.
In our school, we teach children to use many different forms of technology such as using digital cameras, microphones, green screen technology, tablets, personal computers, handheld technology, robotics equipment and computer hardware. Our children are taught to use and combine a variety of software applications such as: Office based applications, video and image editing and 3D Drawing applications and software to create a variety of media.
As part of the computer science curriculum, at The Grove Primary School, children are not only taught how to code and program using a block based approach on an iPad app or PC but also we promote unplugged and hands on approach to Computing. Within school, children will be taught all about computational thinking and how we can apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills as well as theories to real life situations. This may involve taking part in a treasure hunt, developing a communication network an even programming a teacher or a friend to carry out an activity as well as use some of the equipment in school such as Beebots, Micro:Bits, Inventor Kits or even Vex Robotics.
The overview for each year group is attached below.
Online safety is interweaved through all lessons, every time a child accesses a device but we also plan standalone online safety lessons. We also will stay abreast of current topics and trends to inform planning and open forum discussions with children
The Online Safety Overview for each class is attached below.
We would hope that by giving the children these opportunities in computing that we will have:
- A seamless computing curriculum, building on the skills that children have been taught in previous year groups.
- A fully integrated curriculum, where computing is used in all subject areas.
- A curriculum where children can use technology for their benefit but know how to do this safely.
- Children that are able to approach a problem and use their logical thinking skills to work out what they need to do.
- Children leave our school with a passion for technology which will open up opportunities within secondary education.
- Children who are prepared and aware of the ever-changing world of technology and are interested in this.
Children are growing up in a world with a vast range of online activities and therefore need to know how to keep themselves and their personal information safe. As part of our curriculum and whole school events, our children are taught how to stay safe online and how to report anything they find upsetting or inappropriate online to an adult or organisation. E – Safety is a key part of the Computing Curriculum where pupils are taught what internet use is acceptable, and what is not, and given clear objectives for internet use. Children are made aware of the dangers and risks of using the internet and mobile technologies throughout the school year. This includes learning about issues during Safer Internet Day. We also ensure children are aware of online threats such as cyberbullying, fraud and viruses and how these can affect their personal information.
At The Grove, we aim to prepare our learners for their future by giving them the opportunities to gain knowledge and develop skills that will equip them for an everchanging digital world. Knowledge and understanding of E – Safety is of increasing importance for children’s future both at home and school.
Our curriculum focuses on a progression of skills in online safety to ensure that children become competent in safely using, as well as understanding, technology. These strands are revisited repeatedly through a range of themes during children’s time in school to ensure the learning is embedded and skills are successfully developed.
EYFS Children understand that their password belongs to them and recognise the impact of good choices and consequences of wrong choices watching short clips.
In KS1 children will focus on how passwords are using to keep information safe keeping, who they can turn too and how it is important to be considerate and kind to people online and to respect their choices.
In KS2 we will think about how we can be responsible online and how we can describe and demonstrate how we can get help from a trusted adult if we see content that makes us feel sad, uncomfortable, worried, or frightened. They will describe positive ways for someone to interact with others online and understand how this will positively impact on how others perceive them.
Project EVOLVE Overview
ProjectEVOLVE provides enables us at The Grove Primary School to deliver key messages around important online safety topics for children. The key messages and resources provided are not just there to teach about online safety. ProjectEVOLVE is there to support the growth and development of our young people trying to navigate an ever-changing online world.
As our children gain more independence and freedom to explore, guidance and support could be considered more important. No doubt, they will be well aware of the latest trends but it is important that they too gain understanding of what is ethical or even lawful when it comes to topics such as image or reputation. Not only that, they need to know what to do in order to create a positive impact in the world as they become a leading generation for all.
At The Grove Primary School, we cover the eight strands of ProjectEVOLVE across all year groups from Year 1 to Year 6. They are as follows:
- Self-Image and Identity
- Online Relationships
- Online Bullying
- Health Wellbeing and Lifestyle
- Privacy and Security
- Copyright and Ownership
- Managing Online Information
In Nursery and Reception, we are developing a different curriculum to suit the children’s needs. Looking at a more simple but effective approach to online safety.
In Key Stage 1 the topics form a base for online safety, while in Key Stage 2 the topics are created to be more in depth and build on what they have learnt.
ProjectEVOLVE is the foundation of our digital literacy curriculum and is delivered at the start of the Autumn term to ensure children’s knowledge is refreshed after the summer holiday and also to provide the opportunity to apply knowledge of online safety throughout the year in computing lessons for information technology and computer science.
Long Term Plan – E – safety
Computing Overview 2021-22
Computing-Progression-of-Skills
