Computing

At Moat Farm Infant School, we teach Computing using the aims and objectives from the National Curriculum. The aim of Computing is to teach children how to use technology in a range of ways and to understand how to use technology safely. This equips children to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world.

The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the principles of information and how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. We ensure that all children understand how to use the internet safely and how to safeguard their own personal data when using websites and apps. We have invested in a range of computer devices including class books, Bee-bots and we continue to review the programs and apps that we use across school. Computing has deep links with mathematics, science, and design and technology and can support learning across these subjects. We use the class books to enhance our teaching of coding and to enable children to use their research skills in a practical way.

At Moat Farm Infant School, children are regularly reminded about online security and behaviour. They participate in E-safety lessons half termly which uses resources from Purple Mash. Parents are invited to attend an E-safety assembly in which children share key messages and educational videos are shown. The children have access to class computers, class books and programmable robots (Bee-bots). Year 1 and Year 2 children have computing sessions which focus on algorithms (coding) and problem solving (debugging). These topics are often taught through the use of Purple Mash on class books, providing opportunities for children to access these same resources at home. Children are taught from an early age to create and debug simple programs, to move a remote-controlled device or to plot a sequence of actions. In Year 2, children are encouraged to research using the internet on the class books and represent their work using a range of methods e.g. bar chats, tables, word documents etc.

Our Computing curriculum and opportunities aim to improve outcomes for children in this area of study and also enhance their work and progress across all subjects where technology is used. Children become digitally literate and are ready to confidently use technology at home and at school. Children also have access to a range of devices and remote-controlled toys and resources so that they can explore simple technologies independently and use them in their learning and play. Children across school are encouraged to use technology where appropriate to support their learning in all subjects and to share their work on relevant platforms. By the time they leave Moat Farm Infant School, children will have gained key knowledge and skills in the three main areas of the computing curriculum: computer science (programming and understanding how digital systems work), information technology (using computer systems to store, retrieve and send information) and digital literacy (evaluating digital content and using technology safely and respectfully).

• In EYFS teachers plan and teach 1 E-Safety lesson every half term.
• In KS1 teachers teach 1 E-Safety lesson every half term using Jessie and Friends videos.
• In EYFS floor books are used to capture children using technology in Child initiated learning (labelled as UTW)
• In KS1 floor books are used to show pupils work and pupil voice.
• In KS1 teachers use Purple Mash planning to teach their lessons.
• Key vocabulary is shared by teachers throughout each lesson.
• Teachers assess children every term.

By the end of EYFS pupils will have had the opportunity to:
• Use technology including iPads, cameras and talking tins.
• Explore technological toys or real objects such as cameras, mobile phones, computer keyboards through their role-play and choosing time.
• Explore how toys work by recording sounds or making them move or taking photographs.
• Understand that information can be retrieved from computers.
• Use age-appropriate computer software and apps.
• Understand that a range of technology is used in places such as homes and schools.
• Understand what is meant by sensible ‘screen time’
• Understand the importance of how to stay safe when online
• Explore Purple mash in school and at home through homework tasks

By the end of KS1 pupils will have had the opportunity to:
• Understand what algorithms are; how they are implemented as programs on digital devices; and that programs are executed by following precise and unambiguous instructions.
• Create and debug simple programs.
• Use logical reasoning to predict the behaviour of simple programs.
• Use technology purposefully to create, organise, store, manipulate and retrieve digital content.
• Recognise common uses of information technology beyond school.
• Use technology safely and respectfully, keeping personal information private; identify where to go for help and support when they have concerns about content or contact on the internet or other online technologies.
• Understand the importance of how to stay safe when online
• Explore Purple mash in school and at home through homework tasks

Click to view:
Computing Information Leaflet
Computing Progression of Skills
E-Safety Progression of Skills
Computing Vocabulary

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