Computing
At Sandfield, our vision is to use technology as a foundation for creating equal opportunities. By providing every child with their own iPad, we remove barriers and empower individual learning. Our Technology Ambassadors are passionate advocates for our digital approach, supporting younger pupils and sharing our vision with prospective parents and visiting educators. Pupils confidently personalise their iPads using accessibility tools, tailoring their learning experience to their needs. They are digitally literate and thoughtful, selecting apps and tools that best support them. Technology at Sandfield enables inclusion, independence, and ambition for every child.
D.A.R.E.S – Our Approach to Teaching Computing at Sandfield
At Sandfield, we use the innovative D.A.R.E.S approach to computing, designed to develop pupils as critical thinkers, problem solvers, and confident computational thinkers. This method encourages creativity and purposeful content creation, showing how computing can be applied meaningfully across the wider curriculum.
The aim is to deepen pupils' understanding of computing in a flexible and accessible way. Projects are introduced during computing lessons and then applied across subjects, allowing pupils to use their digital skills in real-world contexts. Teachers are encouraged to adapt the approach to suit the needs and abilities of their class.
The D.A.R.E.S Stages:
- D – Design: Pupils explore software and plan their project outcomes.
- A – Apply: Pupils create content using the chosen digital tools.
- R – Refine: Pupils improve and enhance their work for quality and impact.
- E – Evaluate: Pupils reflect on their outcomes and learning process.
- S – Share: Pupils publish and present their work, embedding digital literacy skills.
This flexible framework supports personalised learning and empowers pupils to become confident digital creators.
