Computing

At Ainsdale St. John's, we aim to equip children with the knowledge and skills needed to become confident, responsible and creative users of technology. Through engaging learning experiences, pupils develop problem-solving skills, logical thinking and an understanding of how technology shapes the world around them.

Online safety is at the heart of our computing curriculum. Children learn how to use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly, enabling them to become positive digital citizens.

Our aim is for every child to leave Ainsdale St. John's with the confidence and skills to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

NCCE - Teach Computing

At Ainsdale St. John's, we follow the Teach Computing Curriculum developed by the National Centre for Computing Education (NCCE). The curriculum is fully aligned with the National Curriculum and provides a clear progression of knowledge and skills from Reception to Year 6.

The Teach Computing Curriculum is organised into four key areas: computer systems and networks, programming, creating media, and data and information. Throughout their learning, children also develop a strong understanding of online safety and digital citizenship, helping them to use technology safely, responsibly and respectfully.

Lessons are carefully sequenced to build on prior learning and enable children to develop both knowledge and practical skills over time. Pupils learn how digital systems work, create and debug programs, collect and analyse data, and use a range of digital tools to create content. Key concepts are revisited throughout the curriculum, helping children to deepen their understanding and retain knowledge.

Through the NCCE curriculum, children develop computational thinking skills, including decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction and algorithmic thinking. These skills help pupils to become effective problem-solvers and prepare them for an increasingly digital future.

Working in Partnership

Parents can support computing by encouraging children to use technology purposefully and creatively. Talking about how technology is used in everyday life, exploring new apps and programmes together, and encouraging problem-solving can help children develop confidence and curiosity. Opportunities to practise typing, create digital content, use coding activities and carry out research can all reinforce skills learned in school.

Children can also benefit from discussing how technology works and how it helps us communicate, learn and solve problems. Encouraging them to explain their learning, share projects they have created and explore new technologies can help deepen their understanding and enthusiasm for computing.

The following websites provide engaging, age-appropriate resources to support computing at home:

• NCCE Teach Computing
  Resources and activities linked to the curriculum taught in school.
  https://teachcomputing.org

• Scratch
  Create animations, stories and games while learning coding skills.
  https://scratch.mit.edu

• Code.org
  Interactive coding activities and tutorials suitable for primary-aged children.
  https://code.org

• BBC Bitesize Computing
  Videos, quizzes and activities covering key computing concepts.
  https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize

• Barefoot Computing
  Practical activities and resources that develop computational thinking.
  https://www.barefootcomputing.org

• Blockly Games
  Fun games that introduce programming concepts through puzzles and challenges.
  https://blockly.games

• National Geographic Kids
  Explore technology, science and innovation through articles and videos.
  https://www.natgeokids.com/uk

Regular opportunities to explore technology in a safe and positive way can help children develop the confidence and skills needed to thrive in a digital world.

Online Safety

At Ainsdale St. John's, online safety is an integral part of our Computing curriculum and wider safeguarding provision. We teach children how to stay safe, responsible and respectful when using technology, both in school and at home. As technology plays an increasingly important role in children's lives, it is essential that they understand how to protect their personal information, manage online relationships and make safe choices when accessing digital content.

Parents play a vital role in supporting online safety. Regular conversations about online activity, setting clear expectations for technology use and encouraging children to speak to a trusted adult if they are worried can help keep children safe. We encourage families to take an active interest in the apps, games and websites their children use and to make use of parental controls where appropriate.

The following websites provide useful advice and support for parents and children:

• Thinkuknow (National Crime Agency)
  Age-appropriate online safety advice, games and activities for children and parents.
  https://www.thinkuknow.co.uk

• Childnet
  Practical guidance and resources to help children stay safe online.
  https://www.childnet.com

• Internet Matters
  Expert advice, guides and parental control information.
  https://www.internetmatters.org

• NSPCC Online Safety
  Information for parents about apps, games, social media and keeping children safe online.
  https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-safety

• UK Safer Internet Centre
  Advice and resources for families on all aspects of online safety.
  https://saferinternet.org.uk

• BBC Own It
  Child-friendly support and advice about life online.
  https://www.bbc.com/ownit

By working together, school and home can help children develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to enjoy the benefits of technology safely and responsibly.