Computing at Spa Camberwell is functional, purposeful and safe. Computing skills are essential for our students to develop independence in their future, as well as developing their awareness of online safety. In computing, students will learn about computer science (codding), information and technology (multimedia and creation) and digital literacy (online safety).
All students in KS2 have a half an hour computing session. Some students are also encouraged to use technology to support their learning in other areas of the curriculum such as English and Maths. KS3 has one hour of computing a week and their schemes of work are differentiated depending on the cohort’s needs.
Learning is structured through three key approaches:
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The Learning to Learn Curriculum
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The Learning Together Curriculum
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The Learning for the Future Curriculum
Pupils will follow elements from one or both approaches depending on their strengths and needs, with a longer-term focus on the preparation for the future.
Our students learn computing by exploring different tasks and websites that provide safe challenges for them. Lessons are engaging and can be adapted to the students’ needs which will include unplugged activities, as well as a variety of functional tasks that will develop their computing skills. Students will learn how to handle a laptop, how to login, type and interact with the smart screen.
Learning together
Students have the opportunity to create collaboratively in lessons, including coding a bee-bot together. They will also have the opportunity to share their work and celebrate their achievements. Students will learn to share resources, take turns and approach new technologies with support and positivism.
The use of lesson schedules will provide the students with a list of instructions, activities, programmes and websites for the students to access in less self-directed sessions. This skill will support their independent in Computing and every other subject that uses lesson schedules. Technology will be used as part of their communication systems by using software such as Clicker 8.
Learning for the future
Students have been using and exploring new technologies at a young age. It is essential to focus on explicit teaching about online safety and the use of passwords. They will also learn a functional set of skills to ensure they are ready for the future – using transport apps, maps, shopping... The school will provide support for families by offering training and filtering workshops. Learning how to type, creating and editing media (audio, photos and videos) and develop their problem-solving skills will provide our students with the tools needed to become independent adults.
