Computing at Jarvis Brook

Computing is an integral part of the national curriculum and is a key skill for everyday life. Computers, tablets, programmable robots, digital and video cameras are a few tools that can be used to acquire, organise, store, manipulate, interpret, communicate and present information. Computational thinking is vital in helping children to solve problems, design systems, and understand the power and limits of human and machine intelligence. Computing is a skill that empowers, and one that all children should be aware of and develop competence in. Children who can think computationally are better able to conceptualise, understand and use computer-based technology, and so are better prepared for today’s world and future.

A high-quality computing education equips children to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Computing has deep links with Mathematics, Science, and Design and Technology, and provides insights into both natural and artificial systems. The core of computing is Computer Science, in which children are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Building on this knowledge and understanding, children are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Computing also ensures that children become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through, information technology.

At Jarvis Brook children will enjoy using information technology and tackle all applications with confidence and a sense of achievement and purpose. We will be following the Teach Computing Scheme. They will develop practical skills and understand the capabilities and limitations of information technology. Children will be able to use the Internet in a safe and considered way. They will understand the necessary precautions to take to stay safe and know where to seek help. Children will learn the fundamental skills and concepts of Computer Science, to include; abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation. They will analyse problems in computational terms, and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs in order to solve such problems.

In Computing lessons, we ensure that the children work as part of a well-paced learning environment and are able to set high expectations for their personal success. We share learning objectives at the start of every lesson and use a range of teaching styles and strategies to achieve them. The major focus for the teaching and learning of information technology is through sessions that teach specific skills. Opportunities for cross curricular links are used where appropriate and children develop their skills through a range of related activities. The teaching of Computing contributes to teaching and learning in many curriculum areas. It also offers ways of impacting on learning which are not possible with conventional methods. Teachers use software to present information visually, dynamically and interactively, so that children understand concepts more quickly.