Technology is an integral part of everyday life at Frosterley Primary School and we promote independent learning, personal growth and development through as many varied experiences as possible. Our main priority is to develop a love of learning so that all pupils can reach their full potential – taking into account their different starting points. As well as the benefits of ICT we are aware of the risks therefore we deliver a carefully planned e-Safety curriculum alongside the computing curriculum and embrace opportunities to raise e-Safety awareness through promoting anti-bullying week and safer internet day.
Intention
At Frosterley, we aim to provide pupils with the vital skills and knowledge that equips then for a technological world. We ensure that children are exposed to a progressive computing curriculum in which they can demonstrate an understanding of the skills, knowledge and vocabulary relevant to their age and ability. We recognise their prior learning, build resilience and enable them to become creative, critical thinkers. This is achieved using the ‘Progression of Skill and Knowledge’ (Education Durham 2019) to meet the aims of the National Curriculum. From this, we have developed exciting learning opportunities.
Implementation
Computing is taught through specific skills which are then applied through cross-curricular opportunities.
Within EYFS, Children develop a greater understanding of the world by recognising a range of technological equipment. They use laptops, BeeBots, iPads, microphones and mechanical toys and begin to speculate on why things happen and how things work. They explore a range of age appropriate software and develop basic computing skills including turning on a screen, typing on the keyboard and using the mouse.
In Key Stage 1, skills are covered through a two/three year rolling programme to ensure that children are taught age-related expectations. Children are beginning to develop their computing skills through using a range of technology such as BeeBots, Laptops and iPads. Opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills are provided through termly topic links. The use of the internet is incorporated alongside a carefully structured e-Safety curriculum.
In Key Stage 2, skills are covered through a four year rolling programme with some repetition to allow pupils to revisit the skills and knowledge they have learned in their prior years and refine these in a variety of contexts. Pupils are expected to use their own login and password and show increasing responsibility for online safety. By the end of KS2, we aim for children to have developed positive learning behaviours with technology such as independence, resilience, cooperation, concentration, improvement, imagination, curiosity and enjoyment. We also intend to raise pupils’ aspirations, to become lifelong learners – to explore, discover and dream.
The children at Frosterley have opportunities to showcase their computing skills during class presentations and assemblies. Children are encourage to join our after school Computing Club where they can build on previous skills and learn new skills.
Impact
Staff make termly judgements on the attainment of children using the National Curriculum and use assessment information to inform their teaching. Leaders support staff in delivering the curriculum through regular training and discussions. Leaders carefully monitor teaching and learning in Computing through learning walks, planning scrutinies, work scrutinies, lesson observations, assessment information and pupil voice. Together, we celebrate the positives and highlight areas for development.
