At Whinstone, we want pupils to be MASTERS of Technology and not slaves to it. Technology is everywhere and plays a pivotal part in students’ lives. Therefore, we want to model and educate our pupils on how to use technology positively, responsibly and safely. We want our pupils to be creators not consumers, and our broad curriculum encourages this. Our aim is for all pupils to understand that there is always a choice with using technology and as a trust we utilise technology to model positive use. Online safety learning outcomes are taught within meaningful contexts that are relevant and are achieved through learning that is matched to the readiness of the children. We also believe we can reduce a myriad of problems by educating children around technological and social media issues. Technology is constantly evolving and changing, and our curriculum enables children to make constructive, positive choices in an ever-changing world.
Our teaching aims in Computing include the following:
- Promote an enjoyment for Computing
- Increased confidence when working creatively with technology
- Full implementation of Computing NC and EYFS guidance across the whole school
- Develop access to Computing beyond statutory National Curriculum
- All children to experience ‘unplugged’ and programmable technology
- Teach Computing in ways that are imaginative, enjoyable, purposeful and well managed
- Giving clear and accurate teacher explanations and offering skilful, higher order questioning
- Foster digital literacy and online safety awareness
- Develop computational thinking skills
- Build understanding of technology fundamentals
- Encourage practical application across subjects
- Cultivate creativity and innovation
These aims can be met if we:
- Quality first teaching with opportunity for CPD.
- Encouraging the delivery of Computing through applying skills creatively to extended projects
- Encourage children to work both independently and with others
- Motivate children to reason, problem solve and process information
- Focus reasoning and thinking through open ended questioning.
- Provide a range of stimulating experiences to engage and inspire.
- Monitoring of the quality of teaching through work scrutiny, planning, acquisition of skills and pupil voice.
- Collect and analyse data.
