Computing

Why do we teach Computing?

We follow the National Curriculum for Computing in England

At Rowanfield Junior School, we believe Computing and ICT are curriculum areas which have developed quite rapidly over the last decade. Computer literacy is essential to help our pupils understand present-day skills and we are delighted to offer a curriculum which ensures all pupils are given the opportunities to be computer literate by the time they transition to Secondary School. Rowanfield Junior School pupils enjoy lessons on programming, coding, creating media, understanding networks and learning how to stay safe on the internet (E-Safety) throughout their KS2 journey.

All pupils at Rowanfield Junior School have the right to have rich, deep learning experiences that balance all the aspects of computing. With technology playing such a significant role in society today, we believe ‘computational thinking’ is a skill every child must be taught if they are to be able to participate effectively and safely in this digital world.

Computing has deep links with mathematics, science, and design and technology, and provides insights into both natural and artificial systems.

What do we teach in Computing?

Computing Curriculum Overview

At Rowanfield Junior School, we use the ‘TeachComputing’ scheme where we aim to transform the way computing is taught to ensure all our pupils receive full curriculum coverage. As part of this scheme teachers have access to a rich range of resources, including:

a cycle of lessons for each subject, which carefully plan for progression and depth;
all resources and programmes needed to deliver these lessons;
a knowledge organiser which outlines knowledge all pupils must master within a unit;
key vocabulary and linking definitions;
challenging questions for pupils to apply their learning in a philosophical/open manner;
comprehensive range of tools including: iPads, BeeBots and laptops.
cross-curricular activities

E-Safety

An important thread of E-Safety runs through all learning linked with technology and being online. Pupils at Rowanfield, use the internet on a regular basis as part of the learning, Technology enhances learning, and we at Rowanfield want to ensure pupils get the most from it, by encouraging behaviour online which falls in line with our school value of ‘Duty’. In school, we use a filtering system to prevent pupils accessing inappropriate sites. We also have regular E-Safety assemblies, lessons in PSHCE and lesson starters to remind all pupils of the importance of keeping themselves safe online. The SuperCAT (Check, Ask, Tell) approach used across al GLA schools is well embedded at Rowanfield, where pupils are taught what actions they can take to keep themselves safe online.

We have further page on our website dedicated to E-Safety available - Click Here

Keeping children safe online | NSPCC

What is online safety? - BBC Bitesize