Joydens Wood Junior School

Intent

At Joydens Wood Junior School, we aim to prepare our learners for their future by giving them the opportunities to gain knowledge and develop skills that will equip them for an ever-changing digital world. Our computing curriculum focuses on progression skills in computer science, information technology, digital literacy and online safety to ensure that children become competent in safely using, as well as understanding, technology. These skills are revisited repeatedly to ensure that the learning is embedded and that the skills are developed. Our intent is to develop pupils’ knowledge across:

• Digital literacy
• Online safety
• Computational thinking
• Computers and hardware

Implementation

Computing is taught in weekly discrete lessons. Teachers use the Purple Mash scheme of work which builds on sequential knowledge. Every lesson in the scheme has been individually planned so that it can meet the needs of all pupils. The scheme has been closely referenced against the national curriculum attainment targets, to ensure progression and coverage.

Having discrete lessons means that the children can develop depth in their knowledge and skills over the duration of each computing topic. Where appropriate, meaningful links will be made between the computing curriculum and the wider curriculum. Employing cross-curricular links motivates pupils and supports them to make connections and remember the steps they have been taught.

Through our computing curriculum, supported with annual events such as Safer Internet Day, we also ensure that children know the importance of using technology safely and respectfully.

Impact

When children leave our school, they are competent and safe users of IT with an understanding of how technology works. Our goal is to ensure children are prepared to navigate confidently through an increasingly connected world, but also remain enthusiastic by the infinite opportunities’ technology has to offer. They are also confident in being safe online and developing respectful relationships online as well as offline.