Computing

At Robinsfield we use technology to enhance teaching and learning. Here we embrace the opportunities technology gives us to engage our pupils across all the subject areas at each phase.

All our classes have Interactive Whiteboards, giving opportunities for bringing difficult concepts to life using visual and audio aids. Pupils also have access to iPads and tablets in class to embed their learning further.

At Robinsfield, we follow the National Curriculum for Computing, delivering a high-quality computing education to create active participants in a digital world. We teach pupils to use their computational and creative thinking to solve problems; to use technology to communicate effectively and to become digitally literate, preparing them for their future.

The computing curriculum covers four main strands:

• Computer Science (Coding)

Children are taught to create, debug and follow simple algorithms; to understand inputs and outputs; to understand computer networks, including the internet.

• Information Technology

Children are taught to use appropriate word processing software to create, store, retrieve and manipulate digital content.

• Digital Literacy

Children are taught to instinctively apply their digital skills to a range of technology, recognising the common uses of technology both inside and outside school.

• Online Safety

Children are taught how to be responsible, safe users of technology. They are taught to recognise and report unsafe practices and to understand how to keep private information safe online.

How can you help your child at home?

As with all subjects, the more practice your child has with using technology, the more accomplished they will become.  You could:

• Sign up to your local library, where there are computer banks which your child can use free of charge
• With your child, use the internet to research your child’s interests, discussing how to carry out an effective and safe search.

• Download free iPad apps such as ‘hopscotch’ to help your child code. 

Online Safety

Online Safety is taught to all pupils explaining and demonstrating how to stay safe and behave appropriately online.

We can only be successful in keeping children safe online if we work with parents to ensure the online safety message is consistent. It is important that parents speak to their children about how they can keep safe and behave appropriately online.

For further information, please speak to a class teacher or our Computing Lead. They will be happy to arrange an appointment for a more detailed conversation, support or guidance.

The Online Safety tab of our website provides more information and useful links for parents who want more information about how to keep their child safe online.