Computing at Belmont
Intent
In a world where children are born as Digital Natives, Belmont Academy believes it is essential to equip our pupils with a high-quality computing curriculum, which allows computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. The core of computing is computer science, in which our pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Moreover, it is vitally important that our pupils remain safe and vigilant when online, and this is integral within our curriculum and beyond. Computing is implemented throughout the school day, especially where there are deep links in mathematics, science, and design and technology. We ensure that our pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through information and communication technology. We strive to create confident online learners, who are prepared for their future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.
Implementation
- Engage in weekly lessons (following the i-Compute scheme of learning) including programming, data, animation, networks, publishing, e-safety, digital content.
- Have access to whole class digital resources - (Chromebooks, laptops, tablets).
- Use Google Classroom within lessons, for online learning and for home learning.
- Be taught in progressive steps and allow for further challenge.
- Be supported by knowledgeable staff who are able to develop and enhance their skills through professional development
- Have opportunities to apply their computing skills and knowledge across the school curriculum.
Impact
The intended impact of the computing curriculum is that:
- Students are exposed to relevant media and technology - starting with accessing computing equipment to moving on to using and developing digital content.
- Students are prepared for an ever-changing digital world - building on pupils’ confidence and resilience when using new computing skills, developing creativity and computational thinking.
- Students are ready and prepared to progress to the next step of their computing development
- Students are able to demonstrate their computing skills and knowledge and can articulate their learning through modelling to others.
- Become excited about computing, as well as developing practical skills that will support their classroom learning and boost their employability skills.
