Intent

At LAPW, we believe that computing is an essential and dynamic discipline that empowers children to become confident, creative, and responsible digital citizens in an increasingly interconnected world.

We will foster deep understanding of fundamental computing concepts such as algorithms, data, networks, and systems, enabling children to make meaningful connections to the world around them. We will equip children with essential computational thinking skills, including problem-solving, logical reasoning, critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and effective communication in digital environments. We will encourage children to explore, experiment, and innovate with a range of digital tools and technologies, fostering curiosity and a lifelong love of learning in the digital realm. We will guide children to understand and practice safe, responsible, and ethical behaviour online, promoting digital citizenship and an awareness of the impact of technology on individuals and society. We will intentionally connect computing concepts and skills with other subject areas, providing authentic contexts for learning and demonstrating the transdisciplinary nature of technology. We will empower children to take ownership of their learning in computing, encouraging them to make choices, reflect on their progress, and apply their knowledge and skills in meaningful ways.

By embracing these principles, we strive to develop digitally literate and capable learners who can confidently navigate, create, and contribute positively to the digital world.

Implementation

We believe that computing is a fundamental skill for navigating and contributing to the 21st century. Through a transdisciplinary approach, we aim to empower our children to become confident, creative, and responsible digital citizens. We strive to cultivate a deep understanding of computational thinking, enabling them to solve problems, innovate, and communicate effectively in a digital world.

We will implement computing across all year groups (Early Years to Year 6) through meaningful and engaging inquiry-based learning experiences that connect with the PYP transdisciplinary themes and the children’s prior knowledge. Children will explore computing concepts through hands-on investigations, asking questions, making connections, and constructing their own understanding. Computing will be purposefully integrated into other subject areas, allowing children to apply their computational thinking skills in real-world contexts and deepen their understanding across disciplines. We will focus on developing a deep understanding of key computing concepts such as algorithms, data, networks, and digital systems, rather than rote memorisation of specific software or tools. Children will develop a range of essential computing skills, including coding, data analysis, digital creation, online safety, and responsible technology use. We will cater to the diverse learning needs of our children through adapted activities, resources, and support, ensuring that all children can access and succeed in computing. Opportunities for collaboration and communication will be embedded in computing activities, fostering teamwork, sharing ideas, and presenting digital creations effectively. Children will be encouraged to reflect on their learning process, evaluate their digital creations, and identify areas for growth in their computational thinking skills.

Our computing curriculum will be aligned with the PYP framework and will address the following key areas:

Computational Thinking:

Developing skills in problem-solving, decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithmic thinking.

Algorithms and Programming:

Understanding how instructions are sequenced to create programs and developing basic coding skills using age-appropriate tools and languages (e.g., visual programming, block-based coding, text-based coding as appropriate).

Data and Information:

Learning how data is collected, organised, represented, and interpreted, fostering data literacy skills.

Digital Systems and Networks:

Understanding the basic components of digital devices and how they connect to form networks, including the internet.

Digital Citizenship:

Promoting responsible and ethical use of technology, including online safety, privacy, and understanding digital rights and responsibilities.

Creating with Technology:

Developing skills in using digital tools for creative expression, communication, and problem-solving (e.g., creating multimedia presentations, digital art, animations, videos).

Assessment in computing will be ongoing and aligned with the PYP principles. We will use a variety of formative and summative assessment strategies to monitor children’s progress and understanding, including:

Observations of children’s engagement and participation
Analysis of children’s digital creations and projects
Self and peer assessments
Performance tasks and problem-solving activities
Reflections on learning

Assessment will focus on evaluating children’s conceptual understanding, skill development, and their ability to apply computational thinking in different contexts.

We are committed to providing ongoing professional development opportunities for our teachers to ensure they have the necessary knowledge, skills, and understanding to effectively implement the computing curriculum. This will include training on new technologies, pedagogical approaches, and best practices in teaching computing.

We will seek opportunities to collaborate with parents/carers, the wider community, and external experts to enrich our computing curriculum and provide children with real-world connections and learning experiences.

This implementation statement will be reviewed and evaluated regularly to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with the evolving needs of our children and the advancements in technology. Feedback from children, teachers, and parents/carers will be valued in this process. By implementing this comprehensive computing program within the PYP framework, we aim to equip our children with the essential skills and understanding they need to thrive in a digitally driven world, fostering their curiosity, creativity, and responsible digital citizenship.

Impact

At LAPW, computing is not just a subject; it is a powerful and transformative lens through which our children explore, create, connect, and reflect, aligning seamlessly with the principles and practices of the Primary Years Programme (PYP). Our inquiry-based approach to computing fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of the digital world, empowering our young learners to become responsible and engaged digital citizens.

Computing provides rich opportunities for children to ask questions, investigate, and solve real-world problems using computational thinking skills. From designing algorithms to control robots to analysing data to understand environmental issues, children develop their critical thinking, creativity, and innovative abilities in meaningful contexts. Digital tools and platforms empower children to express themselves in diverse and engaging ways. They become creators of digital stories, animations, games, and multimedia presentations, fostering their imagination, communication, and self-expression. Computing equips children with fundamental digital literacy skills necessary to navigate and thrive in an increasingly digital world. They learn to evaluate information, collaborate online responsibly, and understand the ethical implications of technology use, becoming informed and responsible digital citizens. Computing facilitates effective communication and collaboration both within and beyond the classroom. Children learn to share ideas, provide constructive feedback, and work together on digital projects, fostering their social skills and teamwork abilities. Integrating computing into other subject areas allows children to explore concepts in new and interactive ways. For example, using simulations to understand scientific processes or creating digital timelines to explore historical events provides a deeper and more engaging understanding of the curriculum. Children gain agency as they learn to control and manipulate technology to achieve their goals. They develop self-management skills through inquiry-based learning and learn to reflect on their learning process and the impact of their digital creations, fostering metacognition and a growth mindset.

In conclusion, computing in our PYP academy is not just about learning to use computers; it is about empowering our children to become confident, creative, critical thinkers and responsible digital citizens who are well-equipped to engage with and shape the world around them. It is an integral part of our holistic approach to education, fostering lifelong learning and contributing significantly to the development of internationally-minded individuals.

What we do at LAPW...

Our approach integrates a variety of modern technological tools to enhance learning across all year groups. In EYFS, Year 1, and Year 2, children develop foundational digital skills using tablets, fostering early exploration and interactive learning. As they progress into Years 3 to 6, children transition to using Chromebooks, which support more advanced research, word processing, and collaborative projects. Every classroom is equipped with interactive whiteboards or displays, transforming lessons into dynamic and participative experiences. We also immerse our children in the world of programming through various coding platforms and applications, nurturing their logical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Creativity flourishes with our range of digital creation tools, including software for drawing, animation, and video editing, allowing children to express themselves in exciting new ways. Furthermore, we leverage diverse online learning resources to supplement classroom teaching and provide personalised learning pathways. We are committed to ensuring all these resources are regularly updated and meticulously maintained, guaranteeing an effective and cutting-edge learning environment for every child at LAPW.

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