With technology playing such a significant role in society today, we at Tanfield Lea Community Primary School strive to prepare our children with the necessary knowledge and skills to allow them to participate effectively and safely in the digital world. We believe that Computing is an essential part of the curriculum, which is not only taught explicitly but its transferable skills are woven across all areas of learning.
Our high-quality computing curriculum has been divided into three key areas: Computer Science (programming and understanding how digital systems work); Information Technology (using computer systems to store, retrieve and send information) and Digital Literacy (evaluating digital content and using technology safely and respectfully). The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Building on this knowledge and understanding, children are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Computing also ensures that pupils become digitally literate; they are able to use and express themselves and develop their ideas through information and communication technology.
At Tanfield Lea, our bespoke curriculum is delivered using a blocked curriculum approach. Children are taught discrete computing lessons, where the skills and knowledge that are fostered are cumulative, progressive and transferable throughout other subjects.
We want our children to be able to operate and thrive in the 21st century. This is why the subject-specific knowledge and skills developed in our Computing curriculum equip children with experiences which will prepare them for secondary school, further education and future workplaces, allowing them to set career goals within: web design, games development, cyber intelligence, software engineers and education. Our curriculum is enriched by the various Computing clubs we run and the educational visits that we attend. Year 5 and 6 enhance their curriculum by attending Tanfield School to learn about programming and robotics. As well as this, they participate in the Lego robotics club and competition, which is run by Nissan. Finally, they also have the opportunity to join the broadcasting club. Year 3/4 have the opportunity to attend an afterschool code club whilst children in KS1 have the opportunity to attend a code club during lunchtimes.
We monitor Computing at our school by close discussion with colleagues, work scrutiny and lesson observations to ensure that children are working at the required standard. To ensure children are prepared for their next steps in education and have achieved the required standard, the Subject Coordinator has developed the school’s Computing Progression map (see below).
Finally, we have updated the current Computing resources within school so our children have the experiences of working with up to date computing technology.
Subject Area Progression Map
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