Computing

Computing skills are rapidly developing and required in the modern world, and it is important to St Thomas’ that our children have fun, are engaged and go forward with an understanding of how to safely consume and produce technology in everyday life. Throughout the years, children will learn and progress in their skills, with appropriate challenges and links to their respective learning journeys. The Computing curriculum is coherently planned and sequenced to include thinking about how computing systems work and how they are designed and programmed. We do this practically, encouraging invention and initiative. Additionally, we teach about safe information retrieval and storage, producing and presenting work using various programs (such as those used for word processing, coding, movie making etc.), self-evaluating what they have produced, and exchanging information in a safe manner.

 Computing is a creative subject, with children able to produce incredible pieces of work with pride. At St Thomas’, we promote and encourage this by allowing children to experiment and problem solve in a safe environment. Computing is often used across the curriculum, and through engaging teaching and curiosity, children gain confidence and enthusiasm in their learning.

Mixing Art and Computing - Cave paintings

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Is it easier to create art by hand or using a digital device?

At St Thomas’, pupils will have one or two Computing topics per term which allows them to learn, practise and apply a range of skills. We have a set of thirty laptops which enables each student to access lesson resources and develop their skills at their own pace. The curriculum builds on prior learning experiences and taught skills to ensure progression through the years. Topics are linked to other curriculum areas to help embed learning and give their creations more context and purpose. E-Safety is taught at the beginning of each topic, and is also the focus of some whole-school assemblies throughout the year and in ‘Computing’ days/weeks (such as Safer Internet Day and Coding Week).

 Our curriculum aims to evolve throughout the year to take on board new technology which becomes available. Currently, we use Scratch and Espresso to write algorithms and create animations; film and edit photos/videos using MovieMaker and image editing software; browse and search the internet safely for research; and create documents to record and present information and data.

Creating stop-motion animations

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Pictures will go into iMovie to create the animation

We aim to develop computer literate pupils, giving them the confidence to work with ever-evolving technology, even when they have left school.

 Computing should be enjoyable, challenging, and practical in the sense that it is used in our daily lives. Therefore, by the end of pupil’s time at our school, we aim to deliver someone who is able to stay safe online with any form of technology; think logically when producing work and creating algorithms; and use external hardware with the view to edit and manipulate the data gathered with various software. 

 Most, if not all jobs require computational skills and creativity. We strive to ensure children can use appropriate resources safely and develop creativity, problem solving, logical thinking and practical skills in using a range of technologies. ​​​

Pupils should be able to describe how computing can be used in professional and personal capacities with regards to saying safe online, searching and receiving digital information and coding. They will also be able to discuss the advancements being made in computing and the impact this can have, and already has had, in the wider world and in daily lives.

This learning will help pupils discover the benefits of computing proficiency and hopefully encourage them to continue on their journey as they transition into secondary education and beyond.