Computing

We aim to prepare our children for living in a digital world. We aim to provide our pupils with skills in Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy, alongside a strong foundation in e-safety knowledge, so they can keep themselves and others safe now and in the future.

At WPS, we follow the Scheme of Work written by Purple Mash. Through regular Computing lessons every term, pupils develop their knowledge and skills in computer science (coding), information technology (digital pictures, animations, text, graphs, spreadsheets; databases; searches; networks; blogging; games creation) and digital literacy skills (online safety; touch typing, email).

Pupils in EYFS have opportunities throughout the year to use technology to design pictures and give instructions on simple programmable toys. From Years 1 to 6, pupils have weekly computing lessons. Most of these involve some time on iPads in the classroom or on computers in the computing suite working within the Purple Mash platform. Using individual usernames and passwords, pupils access the Purple Mash platform, complete tasks set by their teacher and ‘hand in’ their work.

In every year group, online safety is explored through a taught unit. There is a strong link between the learning objectives related to online safety with many of the online safety lessons aligning with RSE\PSHE objectives and being reinforced within RSE/PSHE lessons. However, we take the task of preparing children for a safe digital lifestyle very seriously. Therefore, in addition to the scheme of work we regularly focus on how to be safe online: general rules and guidance when using the Purple Mash platforms (e.g. keeping passwords secure; appropriate conduct and content of emails to each other; use of hyperlinks); National Safer Internet Day (Spring term); termly focus for year group discussions; and additional lessons responding to issues and needs that have arisen in year groups.