ICT
Information and Communication Technology has become an integral part of our everyday lives, and many of us depend on computers and associated technology not only in our working day but also in our leisure time. At Newton Prep children are introduced to ICT from the moment they begin at the school. In the early years especially, the computer significantly enhances our multi-sensory approach towards a rewarding level of achievement in reading, writing and numeracy.
We promote a cross-curricular approach to ICT and children are also taught discrete ICT lessons from Year 1 to Year 5 by subject specialist teachers, who aim to develop, maintain and stimulate pupils' curiosity, interest and enjoyment in ICT. Although we ensure that National Curriculum standards are being met, schemes of work are prepared which go beyond its guidelines providing continuity and developing progression in the acquisition of transferable ICT skills, concepts, principles, methods and vocabulary. Pupils are encouraged to develop personal qualities such as perseverance, initiative, empathy, self-confidence, independence and support for each other through their work in ICT.
In Years 3 to 5 children use spreadsheets to self-assess their ICT proficiency and track their development of skills according to National Curriculum guidelines. Regular assessments of pupils' attainment and progress are made by marking work against given success criteria.
We have three computer suites, each containing twenty-one networked PCs. A full-time ICT technician supports the department. Interactive white boards have been installed throughout the school to encourage a multimedia approach to teaching and learning. Computers are used across the curriculum and appropriate software is available to each age group. The department also runs extra-curricular ICT sessions which engage children in a range of creative activities. Touch-typing sessions are held for Year 5 pupils.