Computing

Computing is essential for all children as it is at the heart of every modern household and therefore will be key to their journey through life. As Digital Natives, children at Halterworth need to be able to use and express themselves as well as develop their ideas through information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world. We strive for pupils who are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content whilst instilling fundamental behaviours, which will empower children to keep themselves safe online.

The Computing curriculum has four key areas – Computer Science, Digital Literacy, Use of Technology and Safety. Each year the children undertake learning, which consolidates and builds on previous learning and utilises common programs such as Google Slides, Google Docs and Google Sheets.Computing has deep links with mathematics, science and design and technology, and provides insights into both natural and artificial systems. There are many junctures where children will work collaboratively as well as individually and it is through these opportunities that children develop their resilience as sometimes it takes several attempts to achieve the desired effect – whether this is creating a persuasive advert about a holiday destination or getting a series of sprites to complete tasks in a self-written program. Children at Halterworth work with Chomebooks and iPads to achieve these goals.

The teaching of the Computing curriculum at Halterworth is highly practical with the children exploring and experimenting rather than spending time listening to lengthy instructions. This learner-centred approach enables all children to be successful and make excellent progress.

The overall aim is to equip pupils with a high-quality Computing education in order for them to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world.