Computing
As Computing is such a large part of today’s modern lifestyle, it is essential that all pupils gain the confidence and ability that they need in this subject, to prepare them for the challenge of a rapidly developing and changing technological world.
At Danson Primary School we aim to give each pupil the opportunity to apply and develop their technological understanding and skills across a wide range of situations and tasks. Pupils are encouraged to develop a confident and safe approach to the use of Computing with the understanding of the capabilities and flexibility of their resources. With this in mind, the current curriculum provision for Computing ensures that children’s learning is supported with modern technology and skills and offers constant assessment for learning opportunities with which teachers can monitor and level. We recognise that all classes have children with a wide range of IT abilities. This is especially true when some children have access to ICT equipment at home, while others do not. With this in mind we aim to provide suitable learning opportunities for all children by matching the challenge of the task to the ability and experience of the child.
The Curriculum
This is divided into three main areas:
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Digital Literacy
The core of computing is Computer Science. Pupils are taught:
•The principles of information and computation.
•How digital systems work.
•How to put this knowledge to use through programming.
Building on this knowledge and understanding, pupils are then equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content.
Computing also ensures 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.
To ensure that all pupils receive a broad and balanced ICT experience we address all each aspect in each year group. Wherever possible, Computing teaching is embedded within cross-curricular teaching, but there are also discrete Computing lessons being taught. Over each year group there is a progression in the skills being taught so that by the end of year 6 our children will have experienced the widest possible growth in their knowledge and understanding, which is also matched to their ability. We intend for our pupils to be safe and responsible online, logical and creative and digitally literate.
To ensure that all pupils receive a broad and balanced ICT experience we address all each aspect in each year group. Wherever possible, Computing teaching is embedded within cross-curricular teaching, but there are also discrete Computing lessons being taught. Over each year group there is a progression in the skills being taught so that by the end of year 6 our children will have experienced the widest possible growth in their knowledge and understanding, which is also matched to their ability. We intend for our pupils to be safe and responsible online, logical and creative and digitally literate.
E-Safety
During each lesson the children will learn about the importance of being safe online and being a responsible user. As with any activity, using computers, and more particularly the internet, exposes children to a number of risks. We remind the children about the importance of having; appropriate content, contacts and conduct when they are online. We also get them to reflect on their 'digital footprint' and the value of their time spent being online.
Pupils
The Internet is an amazing thing! At school we use the Internet on a regular basis as part of our learning and teaching. In school, we have regular 'e-safety' activities to remind children of the importance of keeping themselves safe online. Here is some advice for using the Internet safely:
- Always ask permission before using the Internet.
- Only send e-mails to your friends.
- Only go to Internet sites that you know are safe.
- Be careful what you type into a search engine.
- Never tell anyone your name, address or telephone number over the Internet.
- Always tell your parents or teacher if you are upset by something you see on the Internet.
- Our computer network at school is safeguarded against inappropriate content. Unfortunately, computers at home might not have the same level of safety. Always follow the advice above when you are using the Internet. That way, you will stay safe and protect yourselves and those around you.
- You are not allowed to have a page on social networking sites such as Facebook. If you have one with your parent or carer's permission, you can do some things to make this a bit safer.
- Set the highest security so that your details, picture etc. cannot be seen by just anybody
- Use a made up name so that only people that you really know can find you
- Only accept friends that you really know. Remember that although someone says that they are 12 years old on the Internet, they might not really be 12!
- Click on any of these links to find out more about how to keep safe on the Internet.