Computing

Vision Statement 

Our aim is to develop curious and creative users of technology that can operate safely in the online spaces and interact confidently with high-level programming languages. We want to inspire the next generation of morally-grounded, forward-thinking software engineers. Children will explore and master three core pillars of computing knowledge: information technology, digital literacy and computer science. 

At Drake, we provide a relevant, engaging and challenging Computing curriculum that ensures pupils are able to thrive in a modern technological world.

We will provide relevant training for our staff; ensure Computing resources are effectively used; work with external partners to ensure our assessments are accurate; use assessments to carefully plan next steps; provide appropriate resources to support all our pupils and offer enrichment opportunities to inspire a life-long love of computing and technology.

To achieve this, our Computing lessons are observed to be of the correct challenge for all groups of pupils; teachers are confident to make judgements in Computing; progress is achieved and next steps are carefully planned.

We are well resourced to deliver this curriculum. Every classroom has a teacher laptop and interactive whiteboard. Each year group has access to dedicated Chromebooks and iPads, which can be brought into the classroom. We have a range of additional resources such as Beebots, Crumble Controllers and the latest generation of BBC Micro:bits. Each year group explored their very own virtual adventure using Virtual Reality (VR) headsets!

In our Programming units, pupils will be able to:

• give instructions to my friend
• tell you the order I need to do things, called an algorithm
• program a robot or software to do a particular task (Beebot)
• spot where a program goes wrong so that I can debug it
• write algorithms, debug and test code (via languages and applications like Scratch, Logo and Python) and control technology such as BBC Micro:bits and Crumble controllers
• use repetition and iteration (forever/count-controlled loops) to write more efficient code
• use conditional selection (if... then statements) to control the flow of a program 
• save information inside a variable so it can be used throughout a program 

In our Data and Information units, pupils will be able to:

• use the most suitable technology to collect information
• make bar charts, line graphs and pie charts and use them to answer questions
• enter data into a spreadsheet and use functions and formulae to answer questions
• store data in the correct format in a database and use it to answer questions

In our Creating Media units, pupils will be able to:

• use PCs and tablet devices to store, retrieve, edit and present their ideas in different word processing apps and software, such a MS Word, Google Docs and iPad Pages
• use technology to create digital artwork, stop motion animation and video
• use technology to create digital music, using apps such as GarageBand and Launchpad

In our Digital Literacy units, pupils will be able to:

• identify uses of technology within school and at home
• think about how long I should be spending online
• keep my passwords secure
• cite other’s work following copyright
• become responsible digital citizens
• explore how the media can play a powerful role in shaping our sense of identity

In our Online Safety units (Project Evolve), pupils will be able to:

• tell an adult when they see something unexpected or worrying online
• identify the personal information they shouldn’t share online
• talk about why it’s important to be respectful online
• recognise what games are safe and appropriate
• recognise a website that’s right for them
• check with an adult before downloading any new software
• follow Childnet's SMART Online Safety rules in school