St James's Approach:

► Computing is a subject that all pupils learn at St James’s in order to have a well-informed understanding of the increasingly digital world that surrounds them.

They have the opportunity to learn hands on with equipment and we ensure all pupils have equal access to computing lessons, so that they are equipped with the necessary skills for the future. The teaching of computing at St James’s is effective as it follows a robust progression of skills in order to have the best possible impact on students’ learning and lifelong outcomes. 

The commonly held misconception that computing is just about learning to program or to code is often the first impression when talking about computing.

► Computing is about logic and problem solving, thinking systematically, and thinking of ways to tackle complex tasks creatively or efficiently. These skills are transferable to many aspects of life and learning.

Teaching computing often requires understanding of the workings behind the whole package, from networks to the World Wide Web, or what the cloud means and how the information is transported, what is Wi-Fi and how massages are received instantly. This is taught in easy to understand units from year to year, building on previous knowledge.

Learning through IT

At St. James’s we have invested in IT to ensure that all pupils can use IT to support their learning across a range of subjects. Our handheld devices are used to create, research, extend knowledge to name but a few uses. Pupils are confident in interacting with devices, working independently or cooperatively.   

Curriculum 

E-Safety

This is simply being safe on the internet. This includes the safe use of technology. The pace at which technology is evolving can make it difficult to know what to include when talking about the safe use of the internet.

► At St James’s, we inspire our pupils in shaping their futures, and teach them that they also have a responsibility to safeguard theirs and other’s wellbeing online. All areas of on-line safety is taught progressively.

We foster an open environment in which our pupils are encouraged to ask any questions and participate in an ongoing conversation about the benefits and dangers of the online world. We hold an ‘e-safety’ week when we concentrate on reminding not only our pupils about the importance of e-safety, but encourage parents and carers and our wider community to engage with this most vital topic.

How is Computing Assessed?

Concept Cards

Each child has a ‘Concept Card’ in the front of their Topic Book. The key concepts covered relate exactly to our Progression of Knowledge and Skills documents for each year group. When a Concept is not achieved, the teacher will highlight the concept. Review tasks and teacher support are put in place to address any concepts that have not been achieved.

Progression of Skills and Knowledge

Our Progression of Skills and Knowledge documents inform our planning. The National Curriculum objectives are listed in each term and broken down into progressive steps. The objectives are mapped out for progression across the year. In Computing lessons, these objectives are broken down into microscopic steps, reflecting our mastery approach. We ensure that all of our children are secure on a step before moving onto another step.