Computing
At Booker Hill School we want our children to be confident digital citizens and our broad curriculum encompassing computer science, information technology and digital literacy reflects this. The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Building on this knowledge and understanding, the intent is to equip pupils to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Computing also ensures that pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through, information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.
Our computing curriculum ensures a progression of skills to ensure that children become competent in using technology positively, safely and effectively. Through teaching computing our intent is to equip our children to be active, responsible participants in a rapidly changing world where work and leisure activities are increasingly transformed by technology. We want our pupils to understand that we can make choices about how we use technology and as a school we aim to model positive use, including the use of social media. We encourage staff to embed opportunities for computing across the whole curriculum to make learning both creative and accessible. We want our pupils to be fluent in a range of digital tools to express their understanding. Our aim is that by Upper Key Stage 2, children have the independence and confidence to choose the best tool to fulfil the task and challenge set by teachers.
‘Booker Hill Primary and Nursery School recognises the benefits and opportunities which new technologies offer to teaching and learning. We provide internet access to all learners and staff, encouraging the use of technologies in order to enhance skills, promote achievement and enable lifelong learning.
However, the accessibility and global nature of the internet and different technologies available mean that we are also aware of potential risks and challenges associated with such use. Our approach is to implement appropriate safeguards within the school while supporting staff and learners to identify and manage risks independently and with confidence. We believe this can be achieved through a combination of security measures, training, guidance and implementation of our policies.
Children are taught the expectations relating to behaviour and e-safety at the start of the academic year and all children sign an Online Safety Agreement—which is also shared with and signed by parents and carers. E-Safety at Booker Hill is taught explicitly through our PSHE and Computing curriculum with Project Evolve E-Safety activities used alongside the Teach Computing curriculum. Online safety also features in Reading lessons, whole school assemblies and annual events such as Anti-Bullying Week and E-Safety Day.