COMPUTING

At St Raphael’s we aim to provide a challenging and enjoyable approach to the learning of how computers work (Computer Science), the use of IT (Information Technology) and the skills necessary to become digitally literate and participate fully in the modern world (Digital Literacy). In EYFS, children have a broad, play-based experience of IT and computing in a range of contexts, including outdoor play and from Years 1-6, topics in Computer Science and Information Technology are covered using a range of programs. We have a suite of computers as well as trolleys of laptops and iPads which are used during computing lessons and for other subjects.

Online safety (Digital Literacy) is integral to the Computing curriculum and is an important part of keeping our children safe.  We work to ensure all our pupils know how to be safe and responsible users online whilst being aware of the risks associated with the internet, both in and out of school.  We work closely with parents to ensure they too have a good understanding of how to keep them and their children safe online.

The national curriculum for computing aims to ensure that all pupils:

• Can understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms, data representation and communication.
   
• Can analyse problems in computational terms, and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs in order to solve such problems.
   
• Can evaluate and apply information technology, including new or unfamiliar technologies, analytically to solve problems.
   
• Are responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information and communication technology.