All our children take part in a variety of Computing lessons.  In Early Years the children are exposed to the understanding of internet safety as they explore the world around them and how technology is an everyday part of their learning and understanding of the world. The children have the opportunity to develop their computer skills through continuous provision and discreet computing lessons.

In Key Stage 1, the children will learn to understand what algorithms are; how they are implemented as programmes on digital devices; and that programmes execute by following precise and unambiguous instructions. They will be taught to create and debug simple programmes and use logical reasoning to predict the behaviour of simple programmes. They will be shown how to use a range of technology purposefully to create, organise, store, manipulate and retrieve digital content as well as recognise common uses of information technology beyond school. They will be also be taught to 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 platforms. Each of these skills will be taught through our exciting topic-based curriculum.

In Key Stage 2 the children will design, write and debug programmes that accomplish specific goals, including controlling or simulating physical systems; solve problems by decomposing them into smaller parts.  They will use sequence, selection, and repetition in programmes, use logical reasoning to explain how some simple algorithms work and correct errors in algorithms and programmes. Children will be taught to understand computer networks, including the internet, and the opportunities they offer for communication and collaboration. They will use search technologies effectively, learn to appreciate how results are selected and ranked, and be discerning in evaluating digital content. Children will be taught to select, use and combine a variety of software (including internet services) on a range of digital devices to create a range of programmes, systems and content that accomplish given goals. They will use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly; recognise acceptable/unacceptable behaviour; identify a range of ways to report concerns about content and contact. At St Thomas’ Leesfield, we are continuously updating our computing equipment to enable all children to have the most up to date technology. We use a variety of programmes to teach our children including Scratch (coding) and Purple Mash.