Computing

It is important that we educate our children to be safe and responsible whilst using the Internet and technology. As part of their education, we need to teach them how to use technology both appropriately and effectively. The teaching of Online Safety ensures that our children are well informed about how to protect themselves online whilst promoting the use of technology. In addition to this, our children also learn that there are appropriate and respectful ways to communicate using digital communications be it online or offline. his aspect of the Computing Curriculum is vitally important and therefore taught at the beginning of each year and embedded throughout the year. 

Technology is changing the lives of everyone. It is therefore our intention at Dunston Hill, to spark excitement in our children as they find, explore, analyse, exchange and present information. We also focus on developing resilience and the life skills necessary for children to be able to use information in a discriminating and effective way be it persevering, problem solving or taking risks. The teaching of Computing must be inspirational with regard to ensuring our children are motivated to enjoy and use technology safely. As independent learners, our children need the knowledge and skills to not only live and work in our ever-changing world, they must also be encouraged and supported to realise their potential and strive for excellence. 

Teaching of Computing in our Early Years provides the children with the opportunity to become familiar with a variety of technology resources which they can explore through play. These could be real or no longer in use devices which will support their understanding of technology in the world. Experiences may include exploring simple programmable devices and linking these to those in use at home or in school such as touchscreens, interactive whiteboards, touchpads and tablets. Children may become familiar with simple software as well as develop safe and careful use of resources and know what to do when any technology makes them feel uncomfortable. 

In Key Stage 1, our teaching of Computing includes: three strands of Computer Science which involves Programming and Coding. In addition to this, there is one strand regarding Information Technology and how we use technology followed by a final strand referred to as Digital Literacy which encourages the children to consider the use of technology in the real world as well as how to use it safely. 

In Key Stage 2, our teaching of Computing includes five strands of Computer Science which involves two strands of Programming and Coding. In addition to this, there are two strands regarding Information Technology and how we use these effectively followed by a final strand referred to as Digital Literacy which encourages children to use digital technology as well as evaluate it and use it safely. 

At Dunston Hill, our children can use our Computing Suite which is fully equipped with an Interactive Whiteboard as well as 30 Desktop Computers. In addition to this, we also have 90 iPads which support cross-curricular learning. The use of the Computing Suite and iPads is timetabled throughout school to ensure these valuable resources are used effectively to support teaching and learning. 

Computing capability is an essential skill for life and enables learners to participate more readily in a rapidly changing world. The teaching of Computing at Dunston Hill, aims to encourage our children to use ICT and computing to be creative and solve problems that are grounded in their own experiences. Developing computational thinking in learners can be done from an early age and will help them make sense of and contribute to the society they will live in as adults. 

The teaching of Computing is evidenced through a range of sources such as: class floor books, photographs, work saved on our school network, classroom and school displays, as well as discussions with children and staff.