"The Westgate School is a happy and vibrant community,
where pupils are encouraged to aim for excellence"
(Ofsted, September 2022)
Computing | Computer Science
“Thriving in a digital world”
Our Computing curriculum intends to:
Develop pupils’ understanding of Computer Science, Information Technology and Digital Literacy in order to prepare all pupils to thrive in an increasingly digital world;
Develop these strands to enable pupils to apply computational thinking to be better problem solvers;
Enable pupils to be confident users of IT, applying IT effectively to real world situations and to know how they and others can use IT safely
Computing
All subjects use Computing as part of their curriculum access and delivery. Pupils will develop their knowledge often by using focused research requiring effective use of the internet, as well as having the opportunity to develop their IT literacy and capability using subject relevant applications, particularly in Maths, Design & Technology and Media.
Most subjects make use of Computing for effective home learning management, exam preparation and revision helping develop skills required for both GCSE and beyond.
the GCSE Computer Science course will develop and apply analytic, problem-solving, design, and computational thinking skills. In addition, aspects of these skills are developed within other subjects including Maths and Science
The Personal Development lessons focus on the safety aspects and reporting of concerns.
At KS4 the Computing curriculum is delivered through a combination of Computing lessons, integration with other subjects and through personal development lessons.
Why Learn Computing?
A high-quality computing education equips pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Computing has deep links with maths, science and design and technology, and provides insights into both natural and artificial systems. The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Building on this knowledge and understanding, pupils are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Computing also ensures that pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through, information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.
Computer Science has real relevance in our modern world. The course will give an in-depth understanding of how computer technology works and a look at what goes on “behind the scenes”. The course provides excellent preparation for higher study and employment in the field of Computer Science. The increasing importance of information technologies means there is a growing demand for professionals who are qualified in this area.
What will pupils learn in Computing?
Pupils' confident and assured use of new technology is developed through its application across the curriculum. Discrete skills in coding and programming are taught over the primary years which culminates in a programming project in Year 6 led by a specialist teacher of computing.
As part of the syllabus we will reflect on the need for ensuring safe use of computers and the internet.
Key stage 1 course contents
Pupils are taught to:
Understand what algorithms are; how they are implemented as programs on digital devices; and that programs execute by following precise and unambiguous instructions.
Create and debug simple programs.
Use logical reasoning to predict the behaviour of simple programs.
Use technology purposefully to create, organise, store, manipulate and retrieve digital content.
Recognise common uses of information technology beyond school.
Use technology safely and respectfully, keeping personal information private; identify where to go for help and support when they have concerns about content or contact on the internet or other online technologies.
Long Term Plan: Computing