Computing and Online Safety: Being Computer Literate

Technology is an ever-evolving and changing tool that benefits everyone from all walks of life. At Somersham, we believe “computing effectively” is a vital skill that children must learn if they are to be able to communicate and create effectively and safely in a developing digital world.

We aim to teach many important computing skills throughout our broad and balanced curriculum, in many different subjects. We also teach the importance and value of staying safe online in our approach – something that is a constant challenge to both children and grown-ups. In this way, our children will become effective, efficient and diligent when dealing with the latest information technology.

Our Online Safety curriculum is built using the ‘Education for a Connected World’ framework. This framework describes the Digital knowledge and skills that children and young people should have the opportunity to develop at different ages and stages of their lives. It highlights what a child should know in terms of current online technology, its influence on behaviour and development, and what skills they need to be able to navigate it. The document supports one of the key aims of the government’s Internet Safety Strategy of supporting children to stay safe and make a positive contribution online, as well enabling teachers to develop effective strategies for understanding and handling online risks.

Key Questions for pupils in computing and Online Safety:

Coding - Can I write a programme to accomplish a specific goal?

Connecting - Can I explain and use connections between computers?

Communicating - Can I present my work effectively? Do I know how to stay safe online?

Self-image and identity - Do I know the benefits and dangers of using the internet?

Online Relationships, Online Reputation and Managing Online Information - Can I explain the effect of my online actions on myself and on others?

Health, wellbeing and lifestyle - Do I know how to keep myself safe online?

Privacy and Security, Copyright and ownership - Do I know where and how to report concerns and get support with issues online?