Computing
Infants
Normanhurst has two fully-equipped Computing suites with the latest computers and peripherals. The Fibre Optic internet connection allows for speedy surfing. All pupils from Reception upwards are timetabled in one of the Computing suites to develop their computer skills and cross-curricular links.
Early Years Computing Development
Our Early Years foundation classes have a computer in each classroom with software covering each area of the Early Years curriculum with fun activities. The curriculum also covers the use of remote control toys, electronic play equipment (hoover, cookers, tape recorders).
Our Reception Classes build on learning keyboard skills and mouse control using numeracy and literacy software, drawing software, along with understanding the use of ICT in everyday life using a variety of software and hardware such as Roamers and Beebops.
Infants
Computing lessons in Years 1 and 2 build on the skills learned in Reception. The curriculum is very broad and covers:
- Keyboard skills
- Understanding and using various software packages
- An introduction to modelling
- Data handling (representing information graphically)
- Finding information (internet search engines)
- Control technology (roamers)
- Writing stories using Word and Cloud-based programs
Juniors
Our pupils in Years 3 to 6 build on their earlier knowledge by using more advanced software packages. Activities include:
- Exploring simulations
- Combining text and graphics
- Using sound software
- Databases
- Emailing
- Branching databases
- Analysing data
- Spreadsheets
- Publisher software
- PowerPoint
- Control and monitoring software
- Creating web pages
- Internet research
Seniors
Our curriculum in Years 7 to 11 is aimed at giving our students the best possible range of skills that are required for A Level and the world of work. Our pupils are exposed to a variety of different programmes that enable them to get a taste for different areas of Comupting. Some of the activities include:
- Programming and game making using Scratch, Kodu and MIT app inventor
- Image editing using Photoshop Elements
- Sound editing using Audacity
- Creating 3D models using Google Sketchup
- Web design and creating a wiki page
The students enter different competitions such as BAFTA game design and game making. There is a viral video competition about e-safety and a robotic competition run by Harper Adams University. The students will use a robotic arm to learn how to program a robotic device.
Assessment is online using the Computing department’s own Virtual Learning Environment as well as peer and self assessment.