Computing Intent at St Francis Xavier

The use of computers and computer systems is an integral part of the National Curriculum and knowing how they work is a key life skill. In an increasingly digital world, there now exists a wealth of software, tools and technologies that can be used to communicate, collaborate, express ideas and create digital content. At St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School, we recognise that pupils are entitled to a broad and balanced computing education with a structured, progressive, approach to learning of how computer systems work, the use of IT and the skills necessary to become digitally literate and participate fully in the modern world. The purpose of this policy is to state how the school intends to make this provision.

Our Computing curriculum aims to develop pupils’ knowledge, skills and understanding of Computing, while fostering enjoyment, curiosity, resilience and confidence as learners. Our curriculum is carefully sequenced and progressive, ensuring that pupils develop a secure understanding of fundamental concepts and build systematically on prior knowledge. Through a balance of substantive knowledge and practical application, pupils develop computational thinking, problem-solving, creativity and digital literacy. Pupils are given opportunities to work independently and collaboratively, applying their knowledge and skills to a range of purposeful challenges. We aim for all pupils to develop increasing independence and fluency, so that they can know more, remember more and apply what they have learnt, working towards mastery of the Computing curriculum.

Year 2 have been learning about how computers have evolved over the years since their invention. They ordered the different types of computers chronologically on a timeline.

In our computing lesson we were getting better at understanding what a network is. We discussed different types of networks like rail network and electricity networks. We then discussed connections and that means you can share information and documents between computers. We looked at connections that are wired and wireless. We took a class tour around school to find different connections to the server and different networks we could see. Finally, we made a map of our school network showing the different connections between devices. Here is what we found and the maps we made.

In this unit, Year 2 are working towards creating their own stop-frame animation. They have been exploring how animations are created and discussing examples of popular animations. They have also experimented with this by creating their own flipbook. This has helped them to deepen their understanding of how animations are created by displaying a series of still images very quickly, making it look like they are moving. 

Year 2 have been learning how to use the internet to find out answers to questions. They have also learnt about the importance of verifying the accuracy of information given on the internet and how to check multiple sources before answering questions.

Year 4 have been using Scratch to investigate programming. This is a programme they are also able to use at home and explore further for free.

Year 1 - ialgorithm

Year 1 have been understanding that algorithms are precise instructions that can be followed. We programmed a beebot to follow precise instructions around the map! 

Year 5 have been using scratch in order to program variables into a set of instructions.