Computing
Computing
Intent
Intent | Implementation |
Safely Independent | Computing skills are built upon as learners progress through the school. This allows them to secure the skills so that they can be independent. |
Confident Communicators | Learners learn how to collaborate with teachers and peers through computing |
Respectful Citizen | Termly online safety lessons and curriculum topics related to cyberbullying are delivered to learners to enable them to live respectfully in society |
Inquisitive Thinker | A large number of our computing topics allow for creativity. For example, animation allows learners to think of and develop their animations. |
Resilient Learners | Our programming curriculum encourages problem-solving and finding solutions skills |
The National Curriculum
The National Curriculum for computing is divided into 3 strands, IT, Digital Literacy, and Computer Science:
IT incorporates learning about how forms of technology send, receive, and store information.
Digital Literacy incorporates the skills you need to live, learn, and work in a society where communication and access to information are becoming increasingly important.
Computer Science incorporates learning about computers and computational systems. Designing, using, and debugging algorithms and programming fall under this category.
Our Curriculum Offer
Curriculum Structure
At Westhaven, we pride ourselves on providing a curriculum that is rooted in Bruner’s Spiral Curriculum philosophy. This practice of building on prior learning is one that is offered in Computing.
Below is an example of how the topic of “consent” is delivered in Computing at Westhaven:
Extra Curricular Opportunities
At Westhaven, we offer a Lego + Coding club after school once a week. This club involves using Lego to fulfill different “missions”. To do this, learners must code the Lego so that it can move and meet the requirements of the mission. This is part of the First Lego League competition which we are hoping to enter each year!
Curriculum Implementation
Who learns Computing at Westhaven?
Computing is mandatory for all learners from KS1 – KS4. Therefore, all learners at Westhaven will be taught Computing from Year 1 up to and including Year 11. For our learners who stay at Westhaven for KS5, Computing is also taught.
How often is Computing taught?
Computing is delivered by our wonderful team of teachers in KS1, KS2 and KS3. In KS4, the qualification is taught by Mr Burgess.
KS1 – 30 minutes a week.
KS2 Preparing to Learn Classes – 15 minutes a week
KS2 Ready to Learn Classes – 30 minutes a week
KS3 Preparing to Learn Classes – 30 minutes a week
KS3 Ready to Learn Classes – 1 hour a week
KS4 – 2 hours a week.
KS5 – 30 minutes a week.
Approach
At Westhaven, we are able to differentiate our curriculums to meet the needs of our learners. Computing is a subject that can be heavily differentiated depending on the learners accessing it. In some classes, our Computing lessons can be very practical and “unplugged” whereas, in other classes, our learners will be on the Chromebooks, producing high-quality digital information.
Resources
All classes are equipped with Chromebooks or tablets. This enables our learners to regularly access technology to support their learning in all areas of our curriculum. We also have a range of accessible resources to support learners with greater needs, such as large and coloured keyboards. We also have a large repertoire of word mats linked to each topic in Computing which can support our learners with the key vocabulary.
How is work evidenced?
All work is evidenced primarily on Evidence For Learning. Should learners produce something digitally, it is saved to their Google Drives and shared with teachers who will keep electronic copies.
Qualification offer
At Westhaven, we offer the WJEC Pathways Qualification for IT Users to our KS4 learners. This qualification was introduced in the 2022/23 academic year. Should a learner demonstrate a particular level of skill in Computing, there is the possibility to deliver a GCSE.
Curriculum Impact
Qualification Results
Prior to introducing the WJEC qualification in IT, our learners were enrolled in a TLM qualification. We have also had some learners achieve a GCSE in Computing.
The table below reflects whether learners fell short of, met or exceeded their predictions in the qualification in the last few years.
How does Computing prepare our learners for life beyond Westhaven?
Our curriculum delves into various skills linked to adulthood and how technology can be used to positively support our needs and lifestyles as we move onto independence.
Learners will learn how to safely online bank, shop and use emails. They will also develop an understanding of how we should treat people via social media and keep ourselves safe, including knowing how not to fall victim to common scams.
ICT Fun