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 2023

Safer Internet Day 2023 was on 7th February, with celebrations and learning around the theme ‘All fun and games? Exploring respect and relationships online’. Coordinated in the UK by the UK Safer Internet Centre, the celebration saw thousands of organisations get involved to promote the safe, responsible and positive use of digital technology for children and young people.

Each year in the UK, Safer Internet Day explores a new area or theme that is important to the young people we work with every day. Earlier last year we conducted research about the time that young people spend online and found that:
• 77% of young people have spent more time playing online games and apps during the pandemic than ever before
• More than 1 in 5 young people see a supportive response to negativity within games and apps every week
• 41% of young people have blocked or reported another user because of their behaviour

Safer Internet Day 2023 celebrated young people’s role in creating a safer Internet and the ways they are shaping the interactive entertainment spaces they are a part of. The platforms young people use are spaces for connection, community and collaboration, which is why the day challenges them to foster supportive relationships and respectful communities, whilst equipping them with the skills they need to keep themselves and others safe in these spaces.

Our school assembly for Safer Internet day can be downloaded (see the links below)

We have also shared a whole host of information about online gaming to support adults' understanding of this area. The resources are provided by National Online Safety, the company is a multi-award winning provider of online safety e-learning and resources for the whole school community. At RAPS, we use their resources to support our teaching of Online safety across the whole school.

For more information and resources on E-Saftey click here.

If you feel worried click here to tell us and to view support resources.