Computing and ICT (Information and Communication Technology).
At Frederick Holmes, the vision is for ICT and Assistive Technology to support independent learning and communication and to provide access to appropriate learning experiences for pupils with severe physical disabilities.
All classrooms are fully equipped with interactive whiteboards and touch screen computers and pupils are routinely assessed to identify the most appropriate access arrangement.
A wide range of devices, software and learning environments are used to enable individuals to perform tasks, contribute to activities, and work towards independence. For some this may be a switch that replaces the need to use a computer keyboard/ mouse and allows them to control a household appliance such as a food mixer or kettle, while others may require access to eye gaze technology to enable them to perform the same tasks.
Many pupils use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) including low-tech devices such as a ‘E-Tran boards’ and high-tech communication aids accessed by touch or switch scanning to generate voice output.
The teaching of Computing is concerned with e-safety, how devices, computers and computer systems work, and how they are designed and programmed. Pupils studying computing will gain an understanding of computational systems of all kinds, whether or not they include computers. Computational thinking provides insights into many areas of the curriculum, and influences work at the cutting edge of a wide range of disciplines.
The curriculum presents the subject as one lens through which pupils can understand the world. There is a focus on computational thinking and creativity, as well as opportunities for creative work in programming and digital media. There are five clear aspects of the computing curriculum:
- ICT in Our Lives
- Communication: Multimedia
- Communication: Data
- Programming and Algorithms
- Online Safety and Digital Literacy
All subject curriculum plans, including Computing, are available here.
Online Safety and Digital Literacy is taught as a formal unit each year. e-safety remains a priority in daily curriculum activities, making use of teachable moments, events and cross-curricular learning in order to support our children and young people to stay say online.
The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Building on this knowledge and understanding, pupils are equipped to use information technology to create simple programs, systems and a range of content.
Computing also ensures that pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through information and communication technology – at a level suitable for possible future workplaces and as active participants in a digital world.
