Lowton West Primary SchoolAt Lowton West Primary School, we aim to equip pupils with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to flourish in an increasingly digital world. We follow the Purple Mash Computing Scheme of Work, which provides a progressive curriculum covering the three key areas of Computing: Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy.
Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
In EYFS, children begin to develop the foundations that support future computing learning. Through play-based and adult-led activities, pupils learn to explore and use a range of technology, develop problem-solving skills, follow and create simple instructions, recognise patterns and sequences, and explore digital tools. They are encouraged to use technology purposefully and safely, such as the Interactive Whiteboard and tablets, while developing the language and confidence needed for the transition into the Key Stage 1 Computing curriculum.
Key Stages 1 and 2
Through engaging, practical and creative learning experiences, pupils develop skills in coding, problem-solving, digital content creation, data handling and the effective use of technology. Children are encouraged to become confident, independent and responsible users of digital devices and online technologies.
Online safety is taught as a fundamental part of our Computing curriculum. Alongside the Purple Mash curriculum, we deliver the 2BeSafe online safety scheme of work, published by 2Simple, which is designed to meet the guidance set out in the Department for Education's Education for a Connected World framework. This framework identifies eight key themes that help prepare children and young people for life in the digital world, including self-image and identity, online relationships, online reputation, online bullying, managing online information, health, wellbeing and lifestyle, privacy and security, and copyright and ownership.
We further enhance pupils' understanding of online safety through participation in Safer Internet Day and additional learning opportunities provided through Pol-Ed lessons. These experiences help children develop the knowledge and understanding needed to stay safe online, make informed choices and know how to seek support when concerns arise.
Our Computing curriculum ensures that all pupils leave primary school as capable, creative and responsible digital citizens, ready for the next stage of their education and for life in a technology-rich society.
At Lowton West, we recognise the fact that the effectiveness of any resource is dependent upon how and why it is being used. We believe that the appropriate use of good quality resources will enhance good teaching. Children have access to a wide range of resources including class sets of iPads, netbooks and laptops. Computing is used to enhance other areas of the curriculum through cross-curricular topics. This could be the use of research as Historians in History, Digimaps in Geography lessons, presenting data in Maths and Science or exploring images in Art through digital media.