Computing at Old Sarum Primary
Vision
Pupils are able to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Through the study of computer science, 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. We ensure 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.
Our curriculum is designed with 3 main strands running throughout, these are:
Digital literacy, Information technology, Computer Science
Skills develop year on year through 5 key areas:
- Computing systems and networks
- Programming
- Creating media
- Data handling
- Online safety
How is it taught and why
Computing is taught weekly with access to a range of hardware and software to support learning. A range of programming software is utilised and in addition, children learn about networks, email and the internet and wider use of technology such as social media platforms.
Our aim is that children will
- Understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation
- Analyse problems in computational terms, and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs in order to solve such problems
- Evaluate and apply information technology, including new or unfamiliar technologies, analytically to solve problems
- Are responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information and communication technology.
Assessment
The impact can be constantly monitored through both formative and
summative assessment opportunities. Guidance to support teachers in assessing
pupils against the learning objectives is provided. Pupil voice is also used as an assessment tool