Computing

For computing, our Year 1 and 2 pupils follow the Key Stage 1 National Curriculum.

Our Nursery and Reception children follow the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework.

Our Intent - What do we want children to learn in computing?

At Whitehall Infant School our primary intention is that pupils will be able to use their computing skills across the curriculum and they will become effective and confident technology users.

Before children transition to Key stage 2, we intend for pupils to be adept at using a cursor and keyboard, navigating operating systems and having the vocabulary to discuss and explain their experiences. We intend for children to see first-hand how technology can help us as they set out to purposefully and creatively store, manipulate and retrieve digital content.

Through our scheme of work and enrichment activities, we have an emphasis on coding and algorithms. We intend for children to have a strong foundational understanding of algorithms, simple programs, logical reasoning and prediction.

Our Implementation - How do we teach computing?

Core Curriculum

As a school, we have chosen the Purple Mash Computing Scheme of Work in Year 1 and Year 2. The scheme of work supports our teachers in delivering fun and engaging lessons which help to raise standards and allow all pupils to achieve to their full potential. We are confident that the scheme of work provides full coverage and meets the national vision for computing. Furthermore, it gives excellent supporting material for less confident teachers.

Although EYFS do not have a specific technology goal, the foundation for computing is laid in Nursery and Reception in preparation for KS1 through role play, using technology within the class room and working with programmable toys. 

Cross Curricular Links

It is important that children use computing for a range of purposes. The use of technology is integrated throughout the curriculum. Some examples include children using laptops to research a topic within Geography, children creating their own presentations and typing up their written pieces of work.

E-safety – A Whole School Approach

Safety is one of our FRESH values and we believe that young children need a clear, age-appropriate, understanding of how to keep safe when using computing technology and the internet. We intend for pupils and parents to feel protected and well-informed. 

E-safety is taught regularly throughout the academic year so that pupils can have many opportunities to visit important e-safety themes.

• Purple Mash provides useful resources for teaching important online safety messages. We will also have an e-safety assembly in each term. Furthermore, children are given more opportunities to learn about e-safety through our PSHE scheme of work (Jigsaw). See how the Jigsaw scheme of work is mapped to safer internet objectives from 'Education for a connected world' here
• We have a ‘Safer Internet Day’ which brings internet safety into focus and promotes discussion both in school and at home.
• Finally, in collaboration with the safeguarding team, we share regular information about the safe use of technology at home that is relevant to our school community.