Computing Vision

Our intent at Pennington Infant School is to provide a Computing curriculum which is accessible for all children. We strongly believe that high-quality Computing lessons inspire children to ask questions about the technology and how this is used in the world around them as well as encouraging observations, creating, making changes and persevering with tinkering, noticing patterns and algorithms, all whilst becoming confident to use the technology skilfully and safely. Our curriculum design allows children to develop their subject knowledge, skills and understanding whilst promoting their spiritual, moral, social, cultural and mental development which prepares them for future opportunities and experiences. These will all support the foundations of the children’s technology journey to KS2 and the rest of their lives. At Pennington Infant School we link learning through a range of topics, which give children the essential characteristics to help them learn about the uses of Computing in the wider world and the ways in which it can support other topics and areas of learning. Through effective Computing planning our children have the opportunities to develop a sense of curiosity about Computing and Technology in the world. We aim to expose the children to different technologies, so the children grow in confidence and learn to explore, compare, identify, observe, edit and be safe with a range of Technology skills. We aim to increase and develop children’s Computer skills, knowledge and attitudes by immersing them in Computing learning through first hand experiences; for example creating and following algorithms, exploring programs, creating and recording and making comparisons between technologies. We plan purposeful outcomes which enable children to share experiences and what they have learnt.

At Pennington Infant School we ensure high standards of teaching and learning in Computing, by implementing a curriculum that is progressive throughout the whole school. We aim to challenge, motivate and involve all learners and through effective Computing lessons Teachers encourage all children to develop a growth mind-set and develop sound Computing knowledge and skills. Computing is taught through our topics, focusing on the knowledge and skills stated in the National Curriculum. We provide our children with opportunities for them to learn about what it means to be a member of a diverse society and how to be respectful and how to use technology safely and kindly. At Pennington Infant School each Computing journey builds on previously taught skills starting with EYFS and prior knowledge. Teachers ensure that children are engaged in Computing through providing a range of exciting opportunities to develop their knowledge and skills. Their ability to ask questions, explore, tinker, explore observe and research will enable them to begin to develop an understanding of Computing and the Technology used around them. Children have opportunities to explore a wide range of Computing resources and we offer experiences to motivate the children’s interest, create passion, memories and encourage positive attitudes towards the subject. Through their Computing learning children will develop the ability to explore and respond to a variety of situations and how technology can adapt to support this. At Pennington Infant school we believe that a language rich Computing curriculum is essential to the successful acquisition of skills in Computing. Quality Computing resources provide an opportunity for the children to explore and apply their understanding of the Computing skills and so it is carefully planned for across the school. Through a rich Computing curriculum, the children will feel prepared and well equipped for a successful future and life as an adult.

The impact and measure of our curriculum is to ensure that children at Pennington Infant School are equipped with Computing skills and knowledge that will enable them to be ready for the curriculum at Key Stage 2 and for life as an adult in the wider world. We want our children to have thoroughly enjoyed learning about Computing, therefore encouraging them to undertake new life experiences now and in the future. We want our children to talk about their Computing learning with passion and enthusiasm both within school and at home. On leaving Pennington Infant school we want children to know more, explore, tinker, question, remember more and understand more about Computing so they will be able to use the skills taught and apply these to the wider world in the future. Thorough assessment activities have been created for Teachers to assess and reflect on the learning throughout a Computing learning journey and against the carefully planned outcomes to link with the topic which is being undertaken. Standards are monitored by the Computing lead through learning walks, pupil conferencing and book scrutiny.