Computing

The Computing Curriculum at Saltdean can be split into three main strands: computer science, information technology and digital literacy (which includes E-Safety). These strands come together to teach children how computers and computer systems work, how to design, build and analyse programs and how to find and manage digital information securely. To support with the teaching and learning of E-Safety, we use lesson plans, activities and resources from Project Evolve. Year groups 1 to 6 cover E-Safety during the first half of the Autumn term and assess children's understanding before and after the teaching. E-Safety is covered again through PSHE lessons and on Safer Internet day, which will take place this year on 11^th February 2025. This provides teachers with an opportunity to recap and revisit any specific misconceptions or reteach areas of weakness following the E-Safety assessment.

Computing is also taught through Barefoot Computing at School, which has a partnership with Cornerstones (the platform we use in or curriculum design). The Computing Curriculum has been mapped out to ensure there is clear progression of skills and knowledge from Reception, where it is taught through Continuous Provision, to Year 6. The children experience a range of stand-alone lessons as well as longer units of work, and 'unplugged' lessons where computers are not required.

Our Computing Curriculum

Our Curriculum Intent:

We want our curriculum, in all its breadth and depth, to prepare our learners not only for the calm waters they will visit, but also for the stormy and unfamiliar experiences they will also face on their journey. We want to give them the confidence that the destination of the journey is theirs to decide, but that they can always navigate home to Saltdean, their starting point and safe haven.

What is a Data Inputter?

Saltdean Data Inputters:

Demonstrate a knowledge-rich, well-connected understanding of computing, which is progressively built throughout their voyage.
Understand what algorithms are; how they are implemented as programs on digital devices; and that programs execute by following precise and unambiguous instructions
Use logical reasoning and predictions
Design, write and debug simple, and then more complex programs that accomplish specific goals, including controlling or simulating physical systems.
Use their ability to recognise sequences and repetition in programs.
Are flexible and can work with a range of variables and different forms of input and output equipment.
Use logical reasoning to explain how some simple algorithms work and to detect and correct errors in algorithms and programs.
Understand how computers and their networks can provide multiple services across the world.
Are responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information and communication technology.
Understand ways in which to keep themselves and others safe when working online.
Are resilient problem solvers and have the confidence to take risks, having a growth mind-set to understand that only from making mistakes and trying again will help them to problem solve coding errors.
Demonstrate the values of Belonging, Resilience, Integrity, Consideration and Curiosity in their learning.

Our Computing curriculum design

Our Computing Curriculum is based around the overarching themes of computer science, computational thinking, information technology and digital literacy. It starts in the Early Years where children are encouraged to be independent learners, who explore, persevere and show a level of resilience when faced with a problem to solve. They are encouraged to make predictions, think of possibilities and justify their reasons. Children are guided in making appropriate choices and develop their understanding of right from wrong, which starts them on their e-safety journey.

In Key Stage 1, children are introduced to a variety of hardware and software, as well as apps, and develop their use of the internet through other curriculum subjects. They build upon their ability to create simple programs and begin to explore their skills in debugging and problem solving, as well as thinking of possible reasons. Children continue to develop their understanding of keeping information private and how to use technology safely and respectfully.

In Key Stage 2, many of these key skills are built upon and developed. Children select and use software on a range of devices and use a variety of programs, systems and content to collect, analyse, evaluate and present data. They use search engine and the internet effectively and become discerning in their ability to evaluate digital content and evaluate its effectiveness. Their understanding of e-safety also develops and children are able to make safe, respectful and responsible choices when working online. They develop their understanding of acceptable or unacceptable behaviour and are able to identify how to report a concern or contact and who to.

Our Computing Curriculum Overview

computing curriculum overview.pdf