Bonsall CE (VA) Primary School – Computing

Our computing curriculum aims to provide high-quality computing education which equips pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world.  And to safely navigate the rapidly developing digital world within modern society. Developing into confident, successful users of technology, who can be apply skills learnt to enhance their lives.

By the end of Year 6 our pupils will be able to:

  • Understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation.
  • Analyse problems in computational terms, and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programmes in order to solve such problems
  • Evaluate and apply information technology, including new and unfamiliar technologies, analytically to solve problems
  • Be responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information and communication technology

PurpleMash is used as a base for the curriculum and has been adapted to suit teaching within mixed age classes.

Computing is split into 3 areas:

  • Computer Science – pupils learn how computers and networks work. They develop computer programming skills, from simple floor robots in Years 1 and 2, right up to creating on-screen computer games and programmes by Year 6
  • Information Technology – pupils learn to use computers for functional purposes such as collecting and presenting information or using search technology.
  • Digital Literacy – also known as Online Safety. Pupils learn about safe and responsible use of technology as active participants in a digital world.

The three areas of computing are taught through a range of units across our 2 year cycle.

Our Online Safety Scheme of Work has been designed to raise awareness and promote safe and responsible use of the Internet by:

  • Ensuring education regarding safe and responsible use precedes Internet access.
  • Reinforces online safety messages whenever technology or the Internet is in use
  • Educating pupils in the effective use of the Internet to research; including the skills of knowledge location, retrieval and evaluation
  • Teaching to be critically aware of what they access online and how to validate information before accepting its accuracy
  • Empowering pupils to build resilience and to develop strategies to manage and respond to risk online.

Online Safety is integrated into all aspects of school, such as through the celebration of Safer Internet Day, alongside the taught curriculum. Online Safety learning links closely with PSHE through themes such as respecting privacy and keeping themselves safe. Pupils are equipped with the skills needed to become positive, responsible users of technology, highlighting the importance of appropriate communication online and the impact of this on mental health and wellbeing.

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