Today, ICT is developing at an exponential rate. It is inescapable in ordinary life; children are surrounded by it in a way that would have seemed the preserve of science-fiction just a generation ago.
ICT and robotics have the potential to enhance life beyond measure.
The internet (and, increasingly, the Internet of Things) is a hugely powerful resource that has reshaped how society functions. The skills the children learn will help them on a path to contributing to such innovations. But, growing up in this ICT-heavy world requires awareness of its pitfalls and dangers and an understanding of responsibility.
Online safety is of paramount importance. The school has secure safeguarding measures in place, and the children learn about online safety in ICT lessons and PSHCE. This knowledge will prepare the children to use ICT safely at home and in the future.
At The Downs Malvern, great emphasis is placed on coding and robotics. Coding is introduced in Year 3, and projects gradually increase in complexity up to Year 8. Different ‘Block Editor’ programmes are used; the pupils learn to create scripts with loops and variables and to correct bugs in their programmes. Micro:Bits are used in Years 7 and 8, when the pupils assemble components such as robotics boards, servos, fans, LCD screens and sensors, in a variety of custom-designed projects. Robotics is employed elsewhere in the school, too: in DT, Lego Spike projects are undertaken, and there are also extra-curricular activities using Sphero robots, which are coded using iPads.
Alongside this, pupils are taught how to use the Microsoft 365 suite (for example, Teams, Word, Powerpoint and Sway). Lower down the school, pupils practise touch-typing and are introduced to educational games. Further up, they gain experience of graphic design software and 3D modelling. Year 7 and 8 pupils are required to have their own laptop in school (specifications are provided) and preps for academic subjects are set on Teams, along with some lesson work. However, access to screens is limited, to ensure a healthy life-balance; the children can use ICT effectively, but they are not dependent on it.
Together, all this creates an immersive, but balanced, atmosphere of ICT innovation, which will teach the children important skills as they head into an ever-changing world.
