Computing

Technology is rapidly developing the lives of everyone. Our computing vision, at The Haven Primary school, is for all children to develop the skills, creativity and enthusiasm to live and thrive in a world increasingly dependent on computing. In the ever-changing digital world, we aim to provide all children with not only the skills to use the technology that exists today, but the life-long thinking skills and passion to continue to develop their love for computing through secondary school and beyond.

Our evolving curriculum exceeds the National Curriculum objectives to provide our children with a broad range of experiences relating to career based real world experiences. We structure our curriculum into 3 strands – Computer Science, Multimedia and Programming.

Programming

Programming is made up of two parts – an Algorithm, a precise list of instructions to compete a task or solve a problem, and Code, the algorithm translated into a language a computer can interpret.We use a range of different programs and resources for our children to apply their skills in a range of environments and explore new programs. Starting with physical robots so children can tactically solve problems before moving on to abstract, block-based coding languages. Our year 6 finish their journey becoming familiar with Python, an industry used text-based language.

The 4 main areas of Programming are taught in progressive steps to ensure each is secure with our pupils before moving on.

• Sequence – The order in which parts of an algorithm must be performed to achieve the desired outcome, e.g. the recipe to make a cake.
• Repetition – Looking for recurring patterns and using the code to repeat them, reducing computational loading.
• Selection – How we instruct computers to make an informed choice, using true or false questions or comparing values.
• Variables – A metaphoric, named box we can store numbers or text in, these numbers can be changed and updated as the code runs but doesn’t impact the coding. e.g. the score in a game

Computer Science

When the curriculum was changed in 2014, understanding the processes and technology behind our usage of computers was key to developing the engineers and inventors of tomorrow. Although only required in Key Stage 2, we introduce parts of Computer Science in Key Stage 1 so our other learning can be related.

Multimedia

Our multimedia section covers the huge range of skills our children may need for their future career, such as lighting a person being interviewed, designing using Computer Aided Design or manage a company’s accounts in a spreadsheet. Alongside these, we also teach the basic skills needed for our technology reliant world, such as accurately touch typing to copy and pasting images.