Computing

“We want our children to be the creators, not just the users, of new technologies.”

Technological innovations are shaping our society. What technology enables us to do today most of us couldn’t foresee only twenty years ago. It is predicted that 60% of the jobs our children will undertake aren’t even invented yet so it is vital that we equip our children with the skills and confidence to embrace this new and exciting world – where literally anything can happen!

Technology is simply an integral part of everyday life so it is unsurprising that it is part of everyday life at school. Teachers find the interactive whiteboards in each classroom invaluable, and it would be unthinkable for teachers not to have access to the internet at the click of a button.

In Years 7 & 8 each child has their own personal iPad because we believe technology, when used in the right way, can personalise and accelerate their learning, enhance their independent study skills and develop critical thinking – in short make sure that our children are empowered by technology, rather than intimidated or enslaved by it.

From as young as Year 2 our children start programming, using Scratch – a fun way to develop both computing skills and digital literacy. By the time our children are in Year 6 they are combining practical programming on a Micro:bit with learning about hardware, software and binary.

In Year 7 children undertake larger Scratch projects and write code within the Python programming environment, many get a real buzz out of learning about developing apps and designing their own games in Kodu. We are in the process of setting up E portfolios for each child on the iNet so the fun doesn’t have to stop when the computing lesson does!

Practising what we preach, we are constantly seeking to keep abreast of the latest technological innovations to enhance our children’s learning experience.We’re extremely excited about our new Digital Genius Programme. This program is designed to help stretch pupils desire to engage with technology in our three main area’s; Computing, IT and Media. Our children are equally excited about the imminent launch of Dulwich TV. And we look forward to participating in National STEM competitions, where we know our children will enjoy being challenged and stretched. Exciting times.