Computing

Intent

At Academy 360, our primary aim is to cultivate children into masters of technology. Recognising that technology permeates every aspect of modern life, we are committed to modelling and educating our pupils on the positive, responsible, and safe use of technology. Our curriculum encompasses computer science, information technology, and digital literacy, ensuring that pupils emerge as creators rather than mere consumers of technology. As technology evolves, we want our students to appreciate the choices available to them in its use. We leverage technology, particularly social media, to exemplify positive practices, understanding that education is the best preventative measure against many issues associated with technology and social media.

Our knowledge-rich curriculum is designed to balance theoretical understanding with creative application, enabling pupils to become proficient computer scientists. We advocate for the integration of computing across the entire curriculum, fostering creativity and accessibility in learning. Our goal is for pupils to become fluent in a variety of tools that allow them to express their understanding effectively.

In Key Stage 1 (KS1), we aim for children to build confidence, develop skills, and gain knowledge of computing. Our intent is to empower children to use their initiative, fostering independence in their learning. Continuous access to computers and iPads enables children to develop skills autonomously while taking responsibility for their learning. This ownership cultivates resilience and enhances problem-solving abilities, igniting a passion for the digital world.

In Key Stage 2 (KS2), we believe in maximising opportunities to equip children with essential computer science skills that are transferable to real-life contexts. Our vibrant learning environment is designed to ensure all children can achieve. Computer science is taught explicitly and integrated within cross-curricular subjects, utilising up-to-date technology. It is crucial for KS2 students to become digitally literate, expressing themselves through information and communication technology in a respectful and responsible manner. The skills acquired in computing will be invaluable as technology continues to advance rapidly.

Implementation

Our computing curriculum is structured around three key areas:

1. Computer Science

2. Information Technology

3. Digital Literacy

We build upon the foundational skills acquired in KS1, ensuring that by the end of KS2, children have experienced a comprehensive ICT curriculum.

Information Technology

Learners are introduced to the omnipresence of technology, developing an understanding of its functionality. Activities encompass word processing, spreadsheets, data handling, presentation creation, web design, animation, video production, photography, sound, and augmented/virtual reality. Emphasis is placed on digital literacy, including audience awareness and design principles. In KS1, teachers select appropriate programmes, while older pupils are encouraged to make independent choices. Students learn to organise and store files effectively, using platforms such as Showbie and Microsoft platforms for saving and sharing work.

Computer Science

The computer science curriculum is divided into three strands: Computational Thinking, Programming, and Computer Networks. Computational Thinking involves problem-solving strategies, where students learn to develop algorithms and implement them through coding. In KS1, children engage with tools like Beebots and coding apps to grasp algorithmic concepts. In KS2, students design, write, and debug programs, utilising various applications to enhance their programming skills. Cross-curricular teaching allows for the integration of technology in diverse subjects, fostering a deeper understanding of algorithms and error correction.

Digital Literacy

As children navigate a digital world, it is essential they learn to balance technology’s benefits with critical awareness of online behaviour. In KS1, we introduce safe and respectful technology use, embedding core principles through initiatives like Anti-Bullying Week and Internet Safety Day. In KS2, we focus on recognising acceptable online behaviours and the importance of responsible digital citizenship. Real-life scenarios are addressed to illustrate the impact of negative actions online, ensuring students understand whom to approach for help.

Hardware and Computer Systems

In KS1, we prepare children for a technological future by integrating ICT within lessons, allowing for cross-curricular learning. Children regularly access various ICT equipment to build confidence and understanding. In KS2, individual Chromebooks are provided, enabling students to experience the practical applications of technology in their learning.

How We Support SEND Children Within Computing and Technology

At Academy 360, we are dedicated to ensuring that children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) receive the necessary support within our computing curriculum. We utilise a range of accessibility tools, including voice notes, reading and translation software, and graphics and visuals to enhance learning experiences. Our toolkit is designed to accommodate diverse learning needs, ensuring that all pupils can engage with the curriculum effectively.

How we support Disadvantaged Children

With 73% of the children in the primary phase identified as disadvantaged, we adjust and adapt the curriculum to meet their specific needs. This includes the use of iPads and online programmes to facilitate learning. Our approach ensures that all children have equal access to resources and opportunities, empowering them to succeed in their educational journey.

How Computing Relates to Skills Builder

Computing education at Academy 360 is intrinsically linked to the Skills Builder framework, which focuses on essential skills for success in life and work. By integrating computing into our curriculum, we enhance students' abilities in critical areas such as problem-solving, collaboration, and digital literacy. Through project-based learning and collaborative tasks, students develop their teamwork and communication skills while engaging with technology. This alignment ensures that our pupils are not only proficient in computing but also equipped with the broader skills necessary for their future endeavours, fostering a holistic approach to education that prepares them for the challenges of the modern world.

Impact

We strive to instill a love for learning within our computing curriculum. We encourage students to reflect on the significance of their learning and the impact of technology on their development and well-being. Achieving the right balance with technology is crucial for effective education and a healthy lifestyle. Regular discussions between staff and pupils facilitate a deeper understanding of this balance. The impact of our curriculum is evidenced through students’ ability to showcase and celebrate their work, alongside assessments of their knowledge and skills via platforms like Microsoft and Showbie. Furthermore, the introduction of 1:1 devices has significantly enhanced access to technology, allowing students to develop essential skills that are applicable across all curriculum areas. This integration of technology not only supports learning but also prepares students for a future where digital proficiency is paramount. Progress is monitored through outcomes and the documentation of coverage throughout the curriculum.

Computing-Subject-Overview--1.pdfProgression-Map-Computing-1.pdf

Curriculum Intent – Computing

At Academy 360 in the Computing (KS3) and OCR iMedia course (KS4), we aim to provide students with essential digital media skills while fostering creativity, critical thinking, and technical proficiency. The curriculum focuses on equipping students with the knowledge to create, design, and edit a variety of media products, such as websites, graphics, and videos. 

Key Objectives: 

1. Practical Media Skills: Students will gain hands-on experience in media production, using industry-standard tools to create digital products.  

2. Creativity and Innovation: The course encourages students to think creatively, design engaging media, and refine their production processes. 

3. Understanding the Media Industry: Students will explore the role of digital media in society and learn about different careers within the industry.  

4. Collaboration and Communication: Students will develop teamwork and communication skills essential for media projects. 

5. Progression and Employability: The course prepares students for further education, vocational training, or careers in the digital and creative sectors by focusing on skills like project management, problem-solving, and technical proficiency.  

6. Impact on Literacy: The course also enhances students’ literacy by developing their ability to communicate effectively through visual, written, and digital media. Students will improve their reading, writing, and comprehension skills while working with a variety of media formats and narratives. 

By the end of the course, students will have a strong foundation in media production and be well-prepared for future study or work in the digital media field. 

We have organised our curriculum as a continuous learning journey that builds on the learning of KS2 and prepares pupils for life after A360 by providing a natural progression into more advanced media and technology concepts. 

1. Digital Literacy: At KS3, students begin exploring digital tools such as basic software including PowerPoint and Excel. In KS4, the iMedia course deepens these skills, teaching students to use industry-standard software such as Photoshop for creating media products like videos, websites, and graphics.  

2. Creative Development: Starting with basic projects at KS3, students at KS4 create more complex, professional media content, advancing their creative skills. All content is vital to their final exam in year 11. 

3. Communication: Students develop their oracy and literacy skills from KS2, progressing on to effectively communicate ideas through digital media and collaborate on more sophisticated group projects. Students explore ways to communicate using technology and advance through using different methods to do this through each key stage.  

4. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: The course builds on KS2’s introduction to critical thinking by helping students solve complex media production challenges and evaluate their work in a real-world context. 

5. Real-World Application: At KS2, students begin understanding the role of technology. At KS3, they have the opportunity to use this knowledge and apply it to real life scenarios and client briefs. Students continue on to KS4 studying the media industry expectations and career paths, preparing them for future study or work. 

Overall, the OCR iMedia course supports a smooth transition from KS2 to KS3 and following onto KS4, enhancing students' skills in digital literacy, creativity, communication, and critical thinking, preparing them for future opportunities in the digital world. 

Contributing to our A360 Curriculum Intent in Art and Design, we contribute to our whole school intent by: 

How does our curriculum cater for disadvantaged students those from minority groups?

Students who are disadvantaged, including those with multiple barriers, are actively considered in curriculum planning and sequencing to ensure equitable access, targeted support, and the best possible outcomes for all. 

In GCSE iMedia, disadvantaged students, including those facing multiple barriers, are actively considered throughout curriculum planning and sequencing. Complex NEA tasks are broken into manageable, well scaffolded stages, key digital skills are front loaded, and resources are adapted to support varying levels of literacy and confidence. Targeted intervention, structured practice time, and equitable access to equipment ensure that all learners can engage fully with the creative and technical demands of the course and achieve the best possible outcomes. 

Literacy Skills

Students develop strong literacy skills within iMedia through deliberate opportunities to read, write, speak, and listen using subject-specific vocabulary and language, enabling them to communicate and think critically with confidence. 

Students develop strong literacy skills in iMedia through many opportunities to read, write, practice oracy, and listen using subject specific vocabulary and technical language. They interpret client briefs, analyse media products, justify design choices, and evaluate their work. These tasks have the aim of strengthening our student’s ability to communicate clearly and think critically with confidence. 

Qualifications

Students leave our academy with excellent qualifications that give them a wide range of choices and opportunities as they move into the next stage of education and adult life.

In Computing/iMedia, we contribute to our whole school intent by providing students with valuable skills in digital media and computing that prepare students for further education or a wide range of career paths in media, technology, and creative industries. This includes developing skills in using a range of hardware and software that can be adapted for use in a variety of digital careers. These are increasingly skilled now that IT is one of the biggest sectors of employment in the North-East. 

Strong Character

Students develop strong character traits that will support them to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world.

In Computing/iMedia, we contribute to our whole school intent by enabling creativity, problem-solving, resilience, and teamwork, helping students adapt to new technologies and overcome challenges. These skills are developed through lessons and controlled assessment. 

Physical and Mental Health

Our students develop their physical and mental health, alongside their intellectual growth.

In Computing/iMedia, we contribute to our whole school intent by providing creative opportunities that are believed to contribute to reducing stress, an important contribution to overall mental health while in school. This is developed through opportunities to practice problem-solving, critical thinking, and digital skills while in lessons and completing controlled assessment. Students also study e-safety and cyber bullying in KS3, ensuring they have a full understanding of the impact of their actions when using digital devices. 

Cultural Experiences and Opportunities

Students have access to high-quality cultural experiences and extra-curricular opportunities.

In Computing/iMedia, we contribute to our whole school intent by providing access to behind-the-scenes operations within the industry, while offering extracurricular opportunities through clubs and creative projects. Students receive information on career routes and how to access roles in the media that are available in their local area. 

Careers Information

Students engage with high-quality careers information and guidance across all key stages.

In Computing/iMedia, we contribute to our whole school intent by exploring careers in the industry. Throughout KS4, we focus on different sectors and job roles, and the skills and characteristics students would need to be able to access this role in future. Aside from this, students complete controlled assessment that equips them with core skills in ICT proficiency, giving them a range of versatile life skills for their future. Students actively take on the role of different jobs in the computing sector, and work collaboratively as a team to complete projects that mirror real world examples. 

British Values

Students have a highly developed understanding of the fundamental British Values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance 

In Computing/iMedia, we contribute to our whole school intent by promoting mutual respect and tolerance whilst communicating in a digital world. We do this using paired and collaborative tasks throughout each year of study. Students also study stereotypes and the importance of inclusive interface design, as well as the underlying importance data protection and privacy. 

Protected Characteristics

Students have a strong understanding and appreciation of all protected characteristics, including race, gender, religion, disability and sexual orientation.

In Computing/iMedia, we contribute to our whole school intent by exposing students to diverse perspectives, promoting inclusivity and respect for all protected characteristics, fostering empathy and open-mindedness. This is achieved through mock controlled assessment examples including real life briefs, where target audience must be inclusive and considered thoughtfully. Students are taught the impact of design and how it can be perceived by different audiences. 

Click the link below to see our Secondary Computing Curriculum

Computing Curriculum MapComputing 5 Year Curriculum Map

Computing Impact