Computing
Curriculum Intent
At Lanchester Primary School, we believe that Computing is a vital part of our school curriculum, equipping our children with the skills they need to become successful citizens in an increasingly digital world. Our intent is to foster a love for learning and a strong foundation in computing by embedding the values of being Ready, Respectful, and Resilient in all that we do.
We utilise the Teach Computing scheme, which provides structured lessons and resources that align with the National Curriculum. This scheme ensures a comprehensive approach to computing education, preparing our children for the future.
- Ready: We ensure that our children are ready to embrace technology confidently. With a substantial investment in technology, including Chromebooks, tablets, and coding hardware, we create an environment where every child feels equipped to use these tools effectively. Our curriculum is designed to be fluid, adapting to the evolving technology landscape and the unique needs and passions of our children. The Teach Computing scheme offers a progressive curriculum that builds skills incrementally, empowering children to explore, create, and innovate using the latest software and applications.
- Respectful: Our computing curriculum promotes respect in several ways. We teach online safety as a core component, ensuring children understand the importance of respecting themselves and others in digital spaces. By linking computing lessons closely with PSHE and RSE, we help children recognise the impact of their online behaviour and interactions. The Teach Computing scheme incorporates these essential topics, fostering an understanding of digital citizenship. Our dedicated hardware supports children with additional needs, creating an inclusive environment where every child is respected and valued for their contributions.
- Resilient: We instill a sense of resilience by encouraging children to tackle challenges and learn from their mistakes. The structured sequences of lessons from the Teach Computing scheme provide clear pathways for skill development while allowing for creativity and exploration. Our staff, who receive regular and up-to-date training, effectively model resilience by demonstrating problem-solving strategies in various scenarios. Through discrete lessons and collaborative projects, children develop the tenacity to persist through difficulties, enhancing their ability to adapt to new technologies and concepts.
Implementation
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Discrete Lessons: Computing is taught as a distinct subject, with lessons carefully sequenced from the Teach Computing scheme to build upon prior knowledge and skills.
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Integration Across the Curriculum: Opportunities for ICT are woven throughout other subjects, allowing children to apply their computing skills in diverse contexts.
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Inclusive Practices: We provide specialised hardware and software to support all learners, ensuring that every child can engage with computing at their own level.
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Continuous Professional Development: Our staff are confident in their delivery of lessons, thanks to ongoing training and support, which enables them to use IT effectively in the classroom.