INTENT

At Bracebridge Infant and Nursery School it is our intent that through our Computing Curriculum children will be able to develop a wide range of fundamental skills, knowledge and understanding that will equip them for the rest of their life. With technology playing such a significant role in society today, we believe ‘Computational thinking’ is a skill children must be taught if they are to be able to participate effectively and safely in this digital world. A skills-based approach will ensure that children are able to apply their knowledge to a range of technology, whilst remaining safe online

IMPLEMENTATION

With the support of the 2 Simple Purple Mash software and NCCE, we aim to equip children with the skills to create their own digital content in a range of purposeful contexts

In EYFS, teachers introduce different devices and objects through the year and model expectations of their appropriate use. Children are encouraged to explore and use the devices and objects (including iPads, cameras, IWB, floor turtles and voice recorders) and independently building an understanding of their purpose. Children are also exposed to some aspects of internet safety and stranger danger as they explore the devices, objects and the  world around them.

In Key Stage 1, the children will learn to understand what algorithms are; how they are implemented as programs on digital devices; and that programs execute by following precise and unambiguous instructions. They will be taught to create and debug simple programs and use logical reasoning to predict the behaviour of simple programs. They will be shown how to use a range of technology purposefully to create, organise, store, manipulate and retrieve digital content as well as recognise common uses of information technology beyond school. They will be taught to use technology safely and respectfully, keeping personal information private; identify where to go for help and support when they have concerns about content or contact on the internet or other online technologies.

Beyond computing lessons, the use of iPads and Chrome books are used to extend the learning experience, enrich the curriculum and expand learning horizons. We aim to provide children with access to a variety of resources that may not be readily available at home. 

Safe use of the internet (including social media) is promoted and explicitly taught, as well as embedded into the wider/hidden curriculum. We utilise the resources and materials from National Online Safety to enrich staff development and the children’s curriculum. We run successful parent workshops around E-Safety each academic year to strengthen the learning and ensure the safety of the children, in addition to using the 'WakeUpWednesday' online safety newsletters which are communicated to parents weekly. We work with the NSPCC, Lincolnshire Police, Stay Safe Partnership and other agencies to offer these workshops.

IMPACT

Children’s achievements will be celebrated through regular opportunities, such as Open Evenings, together times, themed weeks and with visitors such as from the Online Safety Partnership and NSPCC.  Some work will be displayed around the school and in children’s Learning journeys  which will demonstrate children’s progression in their computing knowledge and their achievements in the computing curriculum. Children will be encouraged to apply their skills across the curriculum and use ICT to support their learning in a variety of purposeful contexts. The biggest impact we want on our children ( and their families) is that they understand the consequences of using the internet and that they are also aware of how to keep themselves safe online.