Computing at Comberton

We follow the National Curriculum for Computing

A high-quality computing education equips pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Computing has deep links with mathematics, science, and design and technology, and provides insights into both natural and artificial systems. 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, pupils are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Computing also ensures that pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through, information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.

Computing prepares pupils to participate in a rapidly changing world in which work and other activities are increasingly transformed by access to varied and developing technology. Pupils use computing tools to find, explore, analyse, exchange and present information responsibly, creatively and with discrimination. They learn how to employ computing technology and capabilities to enable rapid access to ideas and experiences from a wide range of people, communities and cultures. Increased capability in the use of computing technology promotes initiative and independent learning; with pupils being able to make informed judgements about when and where to use computing technology to best effect and consider its implications for home and work both now and in the future.

Comberton’s Computing Aims

The overall aim for teaching computing is to enrich learning for all pupils and to ensure that teachers develop confidence and competence to apply computing understanding and use computing technology in the effective teaching of all their subjects in order to enhance children’s progress. Computing lessons at Comberton offer opportunities for pupils to develop their technical skills, knowledge and understanding across a wide range of computing areas.

We want pupils to develop their understanding behind the principles of computing: from an understanding of programming, to developing computational thinking and becoming problem solvers with computers – identifying ways in which they can benefit real life situations.

We want pupils to develop their technical skills with the control and application of a wide range of hardware and software. This enables children to see numerous possibilities to solve problems with computing technology, as they have many resources at hand. Our hardware and software is utilised throughout the curriculum, consequently pupils develop an appreciation for how computers have a universal application and can use them to enhance their learning in other areas.

We want our pupils to be computer literate. Their understanding of computing technologies should support them in becoming confident and capable users of a wide range of systems and devices. This will enable children to apply the benefits of computing to their daily lives and needs. Our curriculum includes many modern uses of technology and it is important to Comberton that we develop and grow with technology’s changes.

We want pupils to be creative with technology. Comberton aims to take children beyond the technical understanding and uses of technology to the point at which children are capable of becoming imaginative and creative in their usage of computers and their computational thinking. Students aim to become creators and controllers of technology and not simply users.

Finally, we want pupils to be respectful and safe with computing. Children will explore their attitudes towards computing; its value for themselves, others and society; develop an awareness of its advantages and limitations; and always be capable of remaining safe in its use. We encourage our pupils to share their work with a wider audience through the platform of our school website and blog; it is highly important that they understand the need for respect and safety when communicating with the wider world through the use of technology and apply this in school and out.

Computing Milestones

We are developing our curriculum to ensure that our pupils gain a depth of knowledge; we promote the progression of skills; and teach through an effective sequence of learning.

We wish to develop the following 'Essential Characteristics' in our pupils as users of technology:

• Competence in coding for a variety of practical and inventive purposes, including the application of ideas within other subjects.

• The ability to connect with others safely and respectfully, understanding the need to act within the law and with moral and ethical integrity.

• An understanding of the connected nature of devices.

• The ability to communicate ideas well by using applications and devices throughout the curriculum.

• The ability to collect, organise and manipulate data effectively.