Computing
What is computing?
Computing is a subject that includes three strands: information technology, digital literacy (including e-Safety) and computer science.
What is our intention when teaching computing?
At RAPS, we intend to-
- Help our pupils identify the role computing plays in the world today.
- Ensure all pupils know how to keep themselves and others safe online and when using devices.
- Provide high-quality computing lessons that provide explicit teaching of knowledge and skills enabling them to become digitally literate.
- Ensure all pupils have access to the appropriate programmes and devices that enable them to use technology with confidence, responsibility and competence.
- Develop pupils computational thinking and creativity to understand the technological world we live in.
How is computing taught at RAPS?
Each term at RAPS, pupils are taught weekly computing lessons in line with National Curriculum.
The units we teach are blocked into learning themes, such as Animation or Programming using Sketch. Lessons always include revision, analysis and problem-solving. See our whole school computing overview below for a summary of units taught (including programmes used) from Years 1 – 6.
Is computing taught in Reception?
During our pupils first year in school, we do not discretely teach computing lessons. However, pupils have the opportunity to safely explore the use of iPads, laptops and other digital devices (such as digital cameras) alongside their class teachers.
What is the impact of teaching computing at RAPS?
As a result of our computing curriculum at RAPS, our pupils will-
- Know how technology can be used and how it plays a significant role in our world today.
- Know how to act safely when using technology, including how to identify and report a concern.
- Know how to use a variety of programmes and devices with confidence and competence.
- Know, understand and use a variety of subject-specific vocabulary relating to computing.
- Feel digitally literate and enjoy engaging within the subject.
- Be prepared for the next stages of their education relating to computing.
How can I support my child in this subject?
In today’s world, technology is all around us. Young people are more confident than ever to use technology and devices. To support their development in this subject you could engage in coding together, use devices to take photographs, create digital art or even create animations or stop motions. The possibilities are endless!
Please click here for guidance on keeping your child safe online.
Safer Internet Day 2024
On Tuesday 6th February RAPS joined schools and youth organisations across the UK in celebrating Safer Internet Day 2024.
Safer Internet Day is a global campaign to promote the safe and responsible use of technology, which calls on young people, parents, carers, teachers, social workers, law enforcement, companies, policymakers and more, to help to create a better internet.
This year the campaign focusses on change online, this includes covering:
• Young people’s perspective on new and emerging technology
• Using the internet to make change for the better
• The changes young people want to see online
• The things that can influence and change the way young people think, feel and act online and offline
Using the internet safely and positively is a key message that we promote in school/our group/our club, and celebrating Safer Internet Day is a great opportunity for us to re-emphasise the online safety messages we deliver throughout the year.
We would be delighted if you could join us in celebrating the day by continuing the conversation at home.
Our Parent workshop for Safer Internet Day can be downloaded below, it includes tips for online safety, handy websites and tools to start conversations around life online (see the link below).
For more information and resources on E-Saftey click here.
If you feel worried click here to tell us and to view support resources.