Computing, ICT & Media
Computing at Fairley House follows the National Curriculum. We ensure that children are taught a balance of the three main computing strands:
Computer Science – in which students are taught about computation, how digital systems work and develop an understanding of programming
Digital Literacy – students are supported to be confident and safe users of information and communication technology
Information Technology – using information technology to create programs and a range of content
Although we follow the main strands of the National Curriculum, we have the flexibility to deliver content at a slower pace, with more opportunities for recapping learning. Lessons are taught by specialist teachers, who modify learning experiences to ensure language and instructions are adapted.
Due to our students SpLD, we tend to avoid traditional programming languages. Instead, we focus on more drag and drop style applications such as Scratch and Flowol. However, opportunities are given through 1:1 support and lunch clubs for students who want to further boost their programming skills.
Computing uses dyslexia friendly drag and drop apps (rather than programming languages).
In science, masses of hands-on stuff, from experiments to interactive online games, make lessons memorable and fun.
The GOOD SCHOOLS GUIDE
Within Computer Science, ‘topics unplugged’ activities are used to help children understand the need for clear, specific algorithms. For example, can the children ‘program’ their teacher to make a jam sandwich to help them understand how to program floor robots.
Transdisciplinary teaching helps to create lessons that support children to plan, organise and sequence algorithms whilst also understanding the language associated with these skills. We use a range of technology including laptops, iPads and external components including BeeBots and LEGO.
Our School
London’s leading day school for children with specific learning differences
