Computing

Computing at Granard

Intent:
Technology is an important part of everyday life, both at home and in school, and will play an increasingly important role in our children’s futures. At Granard, we aim to develop confident, creative and independent learners who can use technology purposefully and safely.

Our practical and engaging computing curriculum develops core computing knowledge and skills whilst encouraging pupils to think critically, solve problems and reflect on their learning; skills which can be transferred across the wider curriculum.

Implementation:
Computing is taught through dedicated weekly lessons and embedded across the wider curriculum, enabling pupils to apply and develop their digital skills in meaningful contexts. Technology also supports accessibility, helping to remove barriers and giving pupils greater independence in how they access, engage with and demonstrate their learning.

We follow the Kapow Computing curriculum which provides a broad and varied approach. Pupils revisit, apply and extend previous learning whilst consolidating their understanding through appropriate challenges.

In the Early Years Foundation Stage, computing is taught through play-based, unplugged (no computer) activities. Children develop their curiosity, creativity, listening and problem-solving skills while learning to give and follow instructions and collect and organise information.

In KS1, children develop early programming skills by creating simple programs, controlling devices and identifying and fixing errors. They develop their digital literacy by creating and sharing digital content and exploring how technology is used in everyday life. Pupils also learn to use technology safely and responsibly.

In KS2, pupils build on these foundations by designing, creating and debugging increasingly complex programs. They develop their critical-thinking skills, learn to use search technologies effectively and select appropriate digital tools for different purposes.

Online safety is an integral part of our curriculum. It is taught explicitly in Autumn 1 and revisited throughout every computing unit as well as being reinforced through our PSHE/RSE curriculum. This supports pupils to become safe, responsible and critical users of the internet who can make informed choices in an increasingly digital world.

Impact:
Digital learning journals are used to capture pupils’ learning and demonstrate their progression and skill development over time. Additionally, mini quizzes and end-of-unit outcomes provide opportunities to assess understanding, identify progress and monitor the impact of our computing curriculum.