Computing
The use of computers and computer based systems is an integral part of the National Curriculum and is a key life skill. At Black Firs Primary School we recognise that pupils are entitled to a broad and balanced computing education in order for them to develop the necessary computing skills to become digitally literate.
Here at Black Firs, we know that the age of our learners means that they are growing up during the digital age and children need to understand that they are living in a time of continual change and new developing technologies.
Computing is the process of utilising computer technology to complete a task or process. Children studying computing will gain an understanding of computational systems of all kinds, whether or not they include computers. Computational thinking provides insights into many areas of the curriculum, as well as opportunities for creative work in programming and digital media.
The introduction makes clear the three aspects of the computing curriculum: Computer Science (CS), Digital Literacy (DL) and Information Communication Technology (ICT).
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 and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.
At Black Firs Primary School, Computing is taught both as a discrete subject for skills acquisition & development and in a cross-curricular way for outcomes & impact when the opportunity presents itself. We also use resources from the National Centre for Computing Education's Teach Computing to support planning and teaching in school.
The Computer Suite, PCs, Laptops and iPads distributed around the school are used to help children access the Computing curriculum, along with a range of other resources such as programmable toys.
Our Computing Mindmap
