The Essential Characteristics to use Technology effectively

At Rednal Hill Infant School, we aim to deliver a Computing curriculum that equips children with the skills needed to become an active participant in a digital world. Our curriculum supports children to become responsible, confident and creative users of technology. We understand the immense value that technology plays in children’s lives and want to ensure that our children are equipped with the skills to use it positively and safely. Computing is taught reflecting the requirements of the National Curriculum alongside the Entrust EdTech units. Whilst children will learn the advantages of technology, they will also be made aware of the disadvantages associated with online risks and be taught a range of measures to keep themselves safe. Pupils will have opportunities to apply skills in various digital contexts as well as across wider learning in the curriculum.

Computing is primarily taught using school iPads and children are supported to access them appropriately and safely.   Skills are taught through a range of plugged and unplugged activities. Despite being discretely taught, the skills learnt in Computing thread through across our whole curriculum and children are given opportunities to use technology across a range of different lessons where appropriate.  Children are actively encouraged to gather information and present what they have learnt using different skills from Computing sessions.

By the time children leave Rednal Hill Infant School, our aim is for them to become confident and creative users of technology, knowing how to be a responsible user. We aim for children to:

• Develop problem-solving and computational skills and use this to become independent users of technology.
•  Have a wide range of transferrable knowledge and skills which can be used and applied across a range of platforms, JIT5 software and additional apps.
• Speak confidently and enthusiastically about their Computing learning and use vocabulary accurately.
• Be equipped to use technology positively and safely, and know where to seek support from if they are unsure.