COMPUTING

Our intent: a bespoke and progressive curriculum, that is thoughtfully sequenced to enable all children to build and deepen their knowledge, develop strong skills, and engage in exceptional curriculum experiences.

We move in a rapidly shifting digital age and it is incredibly important for children to have a fluency and understanding of computing systems, and how they can be utilised.

Our computing curriculum provides a high-quality education that equips pupils with essential skills in computational thinking, along with the creativity and adaptability needed to navigate an ever-evolving technological world.

We seek to ensure children know that, whilst computing offers a range of incredible and exciting ways to do things, there are also dangers to be aware of; staying safe online is explored in detail, and is an integral part of our curriculum.

Our computing curriculum is designed to develop children’s knowledge, understanding and application of computing skills.

We segment this into 4 key areas:

• Algorithms/Computer Science – this involves children developing coding understanding, building from using logical reasoning, to performing simple programming and debugging floor turtles, to designing code in more sophisticated ways. E.g. visual code in Scratch and Kodu, and script based code in Python.
• Information Technology – this progresses from children understanding how to safely search the internet and use websites, to evaluating information provided online, and understanding local and global networks, and how to keep information secure.
• Digital Literacy – we introduce and encourage literacy in a breadth of software applications. Whilst ensuring a good grounding in everyday business software, we also embrace recording podcasts, making music and films, and games design.
• Online Safety – this enables children to understand risks online, how to use information safely and legally, and to evaluate the reliability of online content.

Through our curriculum, children develop a deep understanding of computing and digital safety, ensuring they leave Parklands as confident, competent IT users. They are well-equipped to interact with the digital world and harness the many benefits technology offers in both everyday life and future careers.

Beyond this, we inspire children with emerging and exciting technologies. They create video games, produce music and films, and explore the world using VR headsets. This approach not only builds their technical proficiency but also nurtures a sense of curiosity and innovation, ensuring they are not just capable users of technology, but forward-thinking digital pioneers.