Computing at Ravenswood

Through a modern, relevant education in computing, the Ravenswood computing curriculum helps children to develop skills and gain knowledge that will equip them for an ever-changing, digital world. As children progress through school, they meet and practise the same skills that enable them to be confident and creative, develop their problem-solving skills and resilience, whilst encouraging them to communicate well and be collaborative. Children understand and develop life-skills that enable them to embrace new technology in a socially responsible and safe way to ensure their future well-being.

Nursery and Reception at Ravenswood design their curriculum around the expectations of the EYFS framework and although Technology is no longer discretely referred to in current documentation our EYFS curriculum recognises and embraces the place of computing in a modern educational programme. The children are provided with opportunities to use technology such as ‘Green Screen’ editing, Bee Bots programming, familiarity with PC and ipad equipment and related software.

In Key Stages 1 and 2, the Ravenswood computing curriculum has been developed to support and follow the National Curriculum. It includes 3 strands: Computing Science, Digital Literacy and Information Technology. Each strand enables all learners to access the curriculum, regardless of previous experience and opportunities outside school. It is frequently reviewed and adapted (where necessary) to keep up with the demands of an ever-changing world to ensure the children are well prepared and safe. Each half term begins with a lesson on Digital Literacy. Studying this regularly means its importance is kept front of mind and the children are equipped with the knowledge and awareness they need to be able to communicate effectively online and to keep themselves, and others, safe.

The below illustrates how the three strands are covered over KS1 and 2:

Training from the Clennell Educational Solutions and Gem Education is provided to keep the Computing Lead teacher and /or teachers abreast of new technologies and ideas, software and hardware, which are implemented into practice.

Computing is taught as a discrete subject; however, pupils are given opportunities to apply and develop what they have learnt across learning in other curriculum areas that helps them to see its wider application in the real world. As well, Year 4 girls are involved with Newcastle School for Girls in a coding project and there is also a Minecraft lunchtime club.

The Ravenswood computing curriculum uses a range of devices and software to deliver and enhance the curriculum including; iPads, PC laptops, Beebots, Sphero Bolts, microbits, the 2simple Collection, a green screen and Microsoft Office.