The computing curriculum is divided into three discrete areas;

• Computer Science
• Digital Literacy
• Information Technology

 By the end of KS1, we teach our pupils to:

APPROACH

We recognise the importance of technology and how it is always developing. We understand how technology plays a big part in pupil’s lives and how we must keep adapting our teaching to suit the ever-changing world of technology. Our computing curriculum allows pupils to learn key skills in coding, word processing and basic computer skills. Technology is introduced in the foundation stage through exploring and play. These experiences are then built on in the next two years where pupils are taught more specific skills.

EYFS

Pupils in EYFS are taught to use technology safely by identifying and naming different devices that they may use. We show them online safety videos to make them aware of when they are at risk. We support pupils to identify different adults that they can refer to for help, both at school and at home. We instill them with the confidence to talk about the consequences of sharing photos online and how it might make others feel. Pupils  discuss the meaning of ‘personal information’ and identify what this could include.

KS1

When pupils reach KS1, computing is delivered through weekly computing lessons. KS1 have access to class sets of IPADS and Chromebooks/laptops. In KS1, pupils learn to understand what algorithms are, how they are implemented as programs on digital devices, and that programs perform by following precise and explicit instructions. We show pupils how to create and debug simple programs, as well as to use logical reasoning to predict the behaviour of simple programs. Pupils learn to use technology purposefully to create, organise, store, manipulate and retrieve digital content. We teach them to recognise common uses of information technology beyond school and use technology safely and respectfully. Pupils are taught how to keep personal information private as well as where to go for help and support when they have concerns about content or contact on the internet and other online technologies.

ONLINE SAFETY

As part of the computing curriculum we teach pupils how to keep safe while using the internet and different technological devices. We use the ‘Think You Know’ website and resources which are suitable for younger children.

 Pupils are taught to:

• Check – Check with an adult before using a computer or tablet.
• Ask – Ask an adult if you are not sure about anything that you see while using the internet or if you want to use a new program or app.
• Tell – Tell an adult if you are upset by something you see while using the internet.

In school pupils learn about keeping safe online through the resources ‘Jessie and Friends’ and ‘Kara, Winston & the Smart Crew.’ We recognise the huge importance of educating children to be confident using technology safely and want our children to know what some of the risks are and what to do if they come across a difficult situation. We ensure online safety is taught regularly through assemblies, taking part in ‘Safer Internet Day’ (every February) as well as through involving parents.

‘Safer Internet Day’ aims to help inspire a national conversation about using technology responsibly, respectfully, critically and creatively. ‘Safer Internet Day’ is a great opportunity to find out more about how we can keep ourselves and our families safer in the online world.

USEFUL LINKS

The NSPCC has lots of advice for parents including ‘Being Share Aware,’ ‘Minecraft Safety Advice’ and ‘How to stay safe using Apps.’ Further information can be found on the links below:

https://www.nspcc.org.uk/search/?query=esafety%20parents

NSPCC Keeping children safe online guide for parents

The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) has created a resource to help parents and carers understand the risks of 'self-generated child sexual abuse imagery' using the acronym 'TALK'.

To find out more, go to https://talk.iwf.org.uk/

https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/

https://www.childnet.com/

Childnet has a useful guide for parents of young children to help them think about the issues involved.

https://saferinternet.org.uk/

Setting Parental Controls on Devices.

Please follow the link for advice on how to set up parental controls on Android Phones, iPhone, Fire tablets, iPad, Nintendo Switch, Microsoft devices ( Windows computers and X box) and PlayStation. 

Click on the link below for more information:

How to set parental controls on devices - Overview (thekeysupport.com)