Computing
Subject leader: Mr Riches
Contact email: pennowethhelp@croftymat.org
Why do we love computing at Pennoweth?
‘Whether you want to uncover the secrets of the universe, or you just want to pursue a career in the 21st Century, basic computer programming is an essential skill to learn.’ Stephen Hawking.
Subject Curriculum Intent
Our curriculum, taken from Cornerstones, enables children to progressively develop knowledge, skills and vocabulary, which are transferable to other areas of the curriculum. Through a well-planned and well-resourced curriculum, we develop children’s creativity, and promote their interest, understanding, risk-taking and effective evaluating skills through all aspects of design.
Computing at Pennoweth is taught in blocks across a two-year cycle in order that children achieve depth in their learning. Key knowledge, skills and associated vocabulary have been identified and these have been mapped across the school to ensure progression. At the start of each unit, teachers establish the starting point for each child and ensure that all lessons taught are relevant and developmental, and consideration is given to how greater depth will be reached within each lesson, as well as how learners will be supported in line with the school’s commitment to inclusion. We have two class sets of Chromebooks to ensure that all year groups have the opportunity to use a range of devices and programs for many purposes across the wider curriculum, as well as in discrete computing lessons. The implementation of the curriculum also ensures a balanced coverage of computer science, information technology and digital literacy.
Cross curricular outcomes in Computing are specifically planned for, with appropriate links between the subject itself and other subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science and Art lessons. Where possible explicit links are made and built upon within our curriculum to support fluency and knoweldge tranference from one subject to the next.
DNA:
The DNA forms the guiding principles that underpin everything we do in school including our curriculum.
Feeling and being safe is incredibly important in all aspect of life but increasingly so in terms of our activities online. Children are taught about the dangers and risks online and the ways in which they can keep themselves safe. Children are encouraged to discuss concerns in an open and safe environment and are encouraged to speak out if they feel something is concerning. Where possible, children’s interests and skills are incorporated into the planning of computing and achievements are celebrated supporting children to feel loved and valued. Children are able to take responsibility for their learning and are encouraged to extend what has been done in school themselves as well as taking responsibility for sharing concerns. Both children and adults are continually learning in computing as new advances and new technologies are continually being developed. Our end goal is to ensure that our children are ready, ready to be independent and responsible in their use of computers and technology, ready to uncover the secrets of the universe or pursue a career in the 21st century.
What will my child experience through computing at Pennoweth?
At Pennoweth, we provide a high-quality computing education which enables children to be confident and competent in using computational thinking and creativity to understand the world. Children will have opportunities to develop an understanding of computational systems of all kinds and the key skills and knowledge in the three areas of the computing curriculum: computer science (programming and understanding how digital systems work), information technology (using computer systems to store, retrieve and send information) and digital literacy (evaluating digital content and using technology safely and respectfully).
What computing knowledge will my child learn at Pennoweth?
Computing Curriculum – Single Year groups 2023-24
What sort of computing language will my child learn at Pennoweth?
Vocabulary language for Computing Curriculum 2023-24
What do Pennoweth’s children think about computing?
Evie in year 3 says, ‘I enjoyed coding because I made my own games.’
Summer in year 4 says, ‘Computing is fun because there are many things to learn about technology and lots of games and apps to use – Bug Club, Espresso and Busy Things.’
Jensen in year 3 says the following:
Useful websites and links:
Online safety for 6-10 year olds:
https://www.internetmatters.org/advice/6-10/
Online safety for foundation stage:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/topics/zfcvhbk/articles/zkcj92p
General online safety tips: