Computing

Curriculum Intent

At Nicholas Hawksmoor Primary School, our computing curriculum aims to develop independent, forward-thinking students who are prepared for the digital future. We recognize the pivotal role technology plays in shaping our world and our students' lives. Our approach is built on three core concepts:

• Digital Creativity: Fostering innovative and imaginative use of technology to express ideas and solve problems.
• Computational Thinking: Developing logical reasoning, algorithmic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Responsibility with Technology: Promoting safe, ethical, and responsible use of technology.

Through these core concepts, we strive to:

• Deliver Quality Learning: Our curriculum, based on the National Centre for Computing Education's 'Teach Computing' framework, ensures a comprehensive and progressive approach to computing education. We aim to develop pupils who are competent, confident, and creative users of information and communication technology, capable of applying their skills analytically to solve problems.
• Inspire Enthusiasm: We encourage a 'can-do' attitude when engaging with technology, inspiring pupils to become active participants in the digital world. Our goal is to ignite a passion for computing that extends beyond the classroom, encouraging pupils to explore and innovate with technology.
• Foster Partnerships: We recognize the importance of collaboration in the digital age. Our curriculum emphasizes teamwork in projects and problem-solving, preparing students for the collaborative nature of many tech-related fields. We also partner with families and the wider community to ensure a holistic approach to digital education and online safety.

We aim to provide quality computing education that enthuses pupils about technology and fosters partnerships within and beyond the school community. We look to equip our students with the skills and knowledge to become responsible, respectful, and competent users of technology, prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.

Implementation

Our approach focuses on delivering a comprehensive, engaging computing education that builds knowledge and skills progressively:

• Curriculum Structure: We use the National Centre for Computing Education's 'Teach Computing' curriculum to ensure a cohesive and progressive approach from Year 1 to Year 6. This curriculum addresses the three aspects of computing: Computer Science, Information Technology, and Digital Literacy, aligning with our own core concepts.
• Digital Creativity Focus: Throughout the curriculum, pupils engage in projects that encourage creative use of technology. This includes digital art, music creation, and multimedia presentations, fostering innovative thinking and self-expression through technology.
• Computational Thinking Emphasis: We integrate computational thinking across the curriculum, teaching pupils to break down problems, recognize patterns, and design algorithms. This approach not only prepares them for coding but also enhances problem-solving skills applicable in various subjects.
• Responsibility with Technology: Online safety is woven throughout our curriculum. We use our guiding principles and school ethos to model and educate pupils on how to use technology safely, responsibly, and respectfully. This proactive approach aims to empower students to make informed choices in their digital lives.
• Cross-Curricular Integration: Computing skills are applied across other subjects, demonstrating the relevance of digital literacy in all areas of learning. This integrated approach reflects our commitment to quality education and helps pupils see the real-world applications of their computing skills.
• Hands-on Learning: Our curriculum emphasizes practical experience, with pupils regularly engaging in coding projects, digital content creation, and problem-solving activities. This hands-on approach fosters enthusiasm for the subject and ensures deep, experiential learning.
• Assessment and Progression: We use a variety of assessment tools, including concept maps, quizzes, and project outcomes, to monitor progress and inform teaching. This ensures that all pupils are appropriately challenged and supported in their learning journey.

Key Resources

National Curriculum Computing

Teach Computing Pedagogy Principles

Teach Computing Progression Map

Teach Computing KS1 Curriculum Map

Teach Computing KS2 Curriculum Map

We believe that this approach reflects our ethos through a well-structured, progressive curriculum; enthusiasm through engaging, hands-on learning experiences; and partnership through collaborative projects and community engagement in digital education.

Impact

The impact of our computing curriculum is evident in the following outcomes:

• Digital Literacy and Creativity: Pupils demonstrate competence and creativity in using a wide range of digital tools. They can confidently create, manipulate, and share digital content, showcasing their learning and ideas through various digital mediums.
• Computational Thinking Skills: Students exhibit strong problem-solving skills, applying computational thinking strategies to break down complex problems, design algorithms, and create solutions. This skill set extends beyond computing, positively impacting their approach to challenges in other subjects.
• Responsible Digital Citizens: Our pupils understand the importance of online safety and digital ethics. They demonstrate responsible behaviour online, know how to protect themselves and others, and make informed decisions about their digital footprint.
• Enthusiasm for Technology: Students show a genuine interest in technology and its applications. They are eager to explore new tools and technologies, demonstrating the enthusiasm we aim to foster.
• Preparedness for Future Learning: Our pupils are well-prepared for the next stage of their education, with a solid foundation in computing that will serve them in their future studies and careers.
• Cross-Curricular Application: Students can apply their computing skills across other subjects, demonstrating the transferability of their digital knowledge and skills.
• Collaborative Skills: Pupils work effectively in teams on digital projects, reflecting the collaborative nature of many tech-related fields and our emphasis on partnership.

We assess these impacts through regular observations of learning, review of digital projects, and discussions with pupils about their learning journey in computing. The way pupils showcase, share, and publish their work provides tangible evidence of the curriculum's impact.

When children leave Nicholas Hawksmoor Primary School, they are digitally literate, resilient, and responsible citizens, ready for the challenges and opportunities of a digital future. They have a strong foundation in our core concepts of digital creativity, computational thinking, and responsibility with technology, preparing them to be active, ethical participants in the digital world.