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 create digital artwork in the style of famous artists, develop their digital writing skills to make a poster and learn about the different types of technology that we use every day.
Year 2
Children start learning about how algorithms can control robots, what different IT systems help in our everyday lives and how pictograms can be used to represent data. In digital writing, children create a shape poem.
Year 3
Children use Scratch to sequence sounds as well as finding and correcting bugs in programs. They begin to explore computer networks and how they work, as well as using iPads to create stop-frame animation. In digital writing, children create a haiku poem.
Year 4
Children are expected to develop a simple educational game using Scratch. They will also have opportunity to learn how the internet connects us to the world and to use data loggers to record information. In digital writing, children create a cinquain poem.
Year 5
Children have opportunity to develop interactive quizzes to enhance programming and computational thinking. They will create artwork using vector graphics and learn how to search for information effectively. In digital writing, children create a leaflet linked to their KUW lessons.
Year 6
Children are expected to create a fact file website linked to their KUW topic. Children will also have opportunity to program devices to sense movement and create a video and learn how the internet is used for communication and collaboration. In digital writing, children create a poem about World War One.
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.