“Everybody should learn to program a computer, because it teaches you how to think.”

Steve Jobs

Our Computing curriculum at Churchfield is designed to equip our pupils with the skills, knowledge, and understanding necessary to thrive in a digital world. We believe that Computing is an essential subject that enables children to be active participants in the digital age, to think computationally, and to become responsible digital citizens. 
 
Computer Science:
At Churchfield CE Academy, we introduce computational thinking from an early age, helping children to develop logical reasoning and problem-solving skills. Pupils are taught how to design, write, and debug algorithms, enabling them to understand the fundamental principles of coding. They are exposed to a range of programming languages and platforms appropriate to their age and ability, such Purple Mash. Pupils also learn about computer networks, developing an understanding of how data is transferred securely across the internet. 
 
Information Technology: 
We provide pupils with opportunities to become digitally literate and competent users of technology. They learn how to use a range of software applications proficiently, including word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and image editing software through the use of Purple Mash. We teach them to use technology appropriately and safely, highlighting the importance of responsible digital behaviour and developing their understanding of the ethical implications of technology use. 
 
Digital Literacy:
We ensure that pupils are equipped with the knowledge and understanding to navigate the complexities of the digital world. They learn about online safety, including issues such as cyberbullying, online privacy, and the importance of critical evaluation of online information. Pupils are encouraged to develop their media literacy skills, enabling them to critically assess online content and understand its potential impact on themselves and wider society.

SEND and Computing  

For those children within the academy that have SEND, computing can be a valuable tool to enable those children to access their learning in an alternative way and achieve alongside their peers. As well as learning how to be digitally literate, it will help children learn how to use the hardware such as a laptop or tablet, by learning these skills we can explore different ways of learning bespoke for each child. At Churchfield there are a variety of ways in which this is done.  

Purple Mash has a wide range of activities that can help children access learning in ways they could not before this includes software such as “MashCams” where children have the opportunity to record themselves speaking about what they have learned rather than using pen or paper. Also included on Purple Mash, are a variety of life simulators. This allows children to look at real life situations such as a trip to the doctors, vets or supermarket and become familiar with it – allowing for a smooth transition into real world circumstances.   

Clicker is a fantastic software used to help children who find it a challenge to write. Whilst typing children can hear their sentences read back to them that can help them check for errors independently. They can also use this software to create mind maps, word banks and presentations about what they have learned.   

Nessy is an educational website that specialises in reading and spelling for children who find it a challenge, especially those with dyslexia. All children on the SEND register have a login to Nessy and have the opportunity access it from home or at school.   

Other hardware such as talking tins – which can record speech, visualizers – which can help a teacher model how to set out learning and iPads that give children access to the software above alongside an adult in groups where appropriate. With all this in place Churchfield aspires to enable all children to access all areas of learning with confidence.