Computing

Purpose of study

A high-quality computing education equips pupils 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 pupils 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, pupils are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Computing also ensures that pupils 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.

Aims

The national curriculum for computing aims to ensure that all pupils:

• can understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation
• can analyse problems in computational terms, and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs in order to solve such problems

• can evaluate and apply information technology, including new or unfamiliar technologies, analytically to solve problems

• are responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information and communication technology

In order to ensure that we can best meet the aims of Computing curriculum we follow the Teach Computing scheme of work created by the National Centre for Computing Education, which is funded by the DfE. This allows the school to deliver a comprehensive and engaging scheme of work. For each year group the curriculum is split into three parts:

• Digital Literacy
• Computer Science 
• Information Technology. 

As part of this the children receive e-safety lessons using the Project Evolve Scheme of work through regular discussion points. For information about how we approach e-safety go to our Online Safety page.

For information about our Computing curriculum please see the image below which identifies the journey children take during their time at Upton.

How can I support my child to stay safe online?

Below are a list of wonderful resources which will allow you to check the appropriateness of the apps, services, subscriptions and online games your child may be accessing from home. There are also useful websites where you can go to report any online concerns and receive support in dealing with these. 

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