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Computing

Computing at Cromwell

In Computing, we look not just at the operation of software but also how computers/computer systems work and how they are designed/programmed. Currently we are using the ‘Teach Computing’ scheme, developed by the NCCE (National Centre for Computing Education). This provides fantastic opportunities for children to explore computer science in more depth, developing a range of skills needed for the technological world in which we live. Classes are timetabled to use our computer suite which gives the opportunity for each child to work independently at their own station or in pairs or groups. We also have a set of laptops and iPads that can be used in class.
Mr Scott's Computing Lessons
 
Below are three Scratch lessons that you can use to improve your coding skills. You can watch the videos on YouTube and then use Scratch Online to create your own projects.
 
Year Group Overviews
 
Year 1

Children have the opportunity to use programmable toys and operate their movement. They will emulate the work of famous artists using digital art skills. Year 1 will also begin to develop their understanding of programming using Scratch Jr.

Year 2

Children will use Scratch Jr and Turtle Logo to further develop their programming skills and explore how algorithms work. There is opportunity to develop creativity by creating digital music as well as learning how to become a good photographer.

Year 3

Children use Scratch to sequence sounds as well as finding and correcting bugs in programs. Children will also be developing their desktop publishing skills as well as creating their own stop motion animation.

Year 4

Children will develop a simple educational game using Scratch. They will also have the opportunity to further develop their skills using Turtle Logo. Children will also learn how to edit photos and understand the basics of audio production.

Year 5

Children have the opportunity to develop interactive quizzes to improve their computational thinking. They will create artwork using vector graphics and start creating/editing their own videos. Children will also start using MicroBit computers to create their own functional devices.

Year 6

Children are expected to use Scratch to create their own educational games. Children will also have the opportunity to develop their spreadsheet skills using Microsoft Excel. Year 6 will also be creating 3D models linked to their DT work.


E-Safety Update

As you are all aware, the use of TikTok, Facebook and other social media are now widespread and part of most people’s daily life. As part of our E-safety policy all children and staff must agree to the acceptable use policy to gain access to the computing network. This outlines how names and images of children will not be published unless prior parental consent has been given. While it is fabulous that parents want to celebrate the success of their children in activities such as sports days, drama productions, class assemblies, it is important to note that posting images of these online in any social media or on the internet is against our school policies. We must respect the wishes of those parents who do not want their child’s name, image or school publicised on the internet. We ask you to work with us to achieve this.


With recent events of Cyberbullying reported in the media it is important that as a school we work together with parents to keep children safe online and to ensure that the E-Safety message is consistent. Your help is needed to talk to your children about how they can keep safe and behave appropriately online. Children can accidently or deliberately be exposed to unwanted or unpleasant content or comments online and there are steps you can take at home to minimise this risk. E-Safety is taught to all pupils at Cromwell, explaining and demonstrating how to stay safe and behave appropriately online.



What can parents/carers do?

Ground Rules

Discuss as a family how the internet will be used in your house. Consider what should be kept private online (personal information, photos etc). Make sure you know what your child is doing online exactly as you would offline.


Online Safety

Install antivirus software, secure your internet connection and use Parental Control functions for computers, mobile phones and games consoles to block unsuitable content or contact Remember that parental control tools are not always 100% effective and sometimes unsuitable content can get past them, so don’t rely on them alone to protect your child.

Location

Locate your computer in a supervised family area. Always supervise the use of webcams and applications which allow voice or video chat. Consider your child’s use of other devices that allow internet access such as Mobile Phones and Games Consoles.

Be open·

Talk to your child and ask them to show or even teach you how they use the internet, learn which websites or tools they like to use and why. Learning together can often open opportunities to discuss safe behaviour with your child.

Always ensure your child knows how to block or report people online who send nasty or inappropriate messages or content. Encourage your child not to retaliate or reply. Look for the CEOP button –website details below.

Make sure your child knows to tell an adult they trust if they see something online that makes them feel scared, worried or uncomfortable.

It’s essential to be realistic - banning the internet or technology will not work and it often makes a child less likely to report a problem. Education around safe use is essential.


Websites for more information:


www.thinkuknow.co.uk – Visit the “Parent/Carer” Section and use the Click “CEOP REPORT” button to seek advice and report online abuse.

www.childnet.com – Visit the ‘Know It All’ Section for an interactive guide about online safety

www.getsafeonline.org – Free up-to-date security advice

BBC Bitesize - Online Safety

I hope this information is useful to you in making your children more aware of keeping safe online.