Computing

Intent 

At Chigwell Row, we strive to provide a strong foundation in computer science for all our students. We aim to instil a sense of enjoyment and confidence around using technology and to develop pupil’s appreciation of its capabilities and the opportunities technology offers to, create, manage, organise, and collaborate. Through our curriculum, we intend for pupils not only to be digitally competent and be successful in a range of transferable skills at a suitable level for the future workplace, but also to be respectful, caring and responsible online citizens.

Implementation

In Chigwell Row technology is used throughout the curriculum with use of the interactive whiteboards. In Early Years children are provided with opportunities to use the interactive screen during provision in order to support children’s learning across  the curriculum. Throughout the year children experience directed computing input and are exposed to technology within their learning environment, for example equipment such as ‘keyboards and  telephones’ are provided in the role play area.

In Computing for Key stage 1 we follow the Kapow scheme of work which is designed with three strands that run throughout: computer science, digital literacy and information technology. The scheme has been adapted to suit the school’s two year rolling curriculum and the needs of our pupils. The children take part in weekly computing lessons.

Computing Lessons in Chigwell Row incorporate a range of teaching strategies from independent tasks, paired and group work as well as unplugged and digital activities. The children have access to a variety of resources for their computing lessons including Ipads and chrome books. We foster an environment that promotes respectful and responsible use of technology, such as discussing appropriate online behaviour and making children aware of the risks online. 

Alongside our computing lessons we use technology as a tool to support learning in other subjects, wherever possible; such as creating presentations, conducting research, recording and taking pictures. 

Strong subject knowledge is vital for staff to be able to deliver a highly effective and robust computing curriculum. Each of the units in Kapow lessons include teacher videos to develop subject knowledge and support ongoing CPD. We collaborate with other teachers and educational technology specialists to stay up-to-date on best practices and incorporate new technologies into the classroom.

Impact

We measure the impact of teaching the aims of the UK primary school computing national curriculum through the following methods:

1. • Child discussions and interviewing the children about their learning (child voice).
   • Photo evidence and images of the children practical learning.
   • Knowledge catchers, quizzes, tests at the start and end of the unit- along with projects which evaluate children’s application and understanding of skills. 
   • Learning walks and reflective staff feedback (teacher voice).
   • Classroom observation: Observe students during technology-based activities and take note of their engagement, problem-solving skills, and ability to use technology responsibly.