Bourne Primary School

We use a scheme of work that is specifically designed around the National Curriculum and aims to provide high quality computing education, equipping children to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. It gives them the confidence to learn and practice the skills, then branch off in different directions, depending on interests.   We find the broad range of diverse topics that we cover support and enhance the children’s computing development.

Knowledge and skills are developed progressively in each year, enabling children to build on prior learning and ensuring a systematic progression. The subject knowledge imparted becomes increasingly specific and in depth with more complex skills taught thus ensuring the learning is built upon. For example, children in KS1 learn what algorithms are, which leads them to the design stage of programming in KS2, where they design, write and debug programs.

Implementation

At Bourne Primary School, computing is taught in units. This ensures the pupils can develop depth in their skills and knowledge over the duration of each of their computing topics.  Knowledge and skills are mapped across each topic and year group to ensure systematic progression. Employing cross-curricular links motivates pupils and supports them to make connections and remember the steps they have been taught.

In EYFS, children are taught the basics of computing and are familiarized with different aspects. In KS1 children are taught basic skills such as typing, controlling devices, simple coding and how to create and manage documents.  These skills are built on in KS2, enabling the children to create more complex programs and documents. They are introduced to programs such as spreadsheets, giving links to other areas of the curriculum.

The implementation of the curriculum also ensures a balanced coverage of computer science, information technology and digital literacy. Online safety is taught within each module, ensuring a “fit” with the current topic.  We believe that it is important to give the children the time to explore and discover for themselves uses of their new found skills: the more they discover, the more they remember. 

Impact

Our pupils become competent at using a variety of programs or apps on both laptops and iPads, being able to identify the best device and software for the task at hand. They are confident to investigate further for themselves, using the knowledge they have gained in class. The progression, understanding and implementation of the children’s learning is constantly assessed throughout lessons, leading to a flexibility in learning.

This solid foundation in Computer Science, Digital Literacy and Information Technology stands them in good stead to continue their education in secondary school and further into their lives. In addition, they are aware of the dangers of today’s world, including that of social media, and know how to keep themselves safe.  Children will be able to evaluate a task and find the best tool for the job. The curriculum at Bourne is designed to pique their interest and encourage them to take charge or their own development.