Computing and Digital Skills at Ridgewood
Our Computing and Digital Skills curriculum is skills-based, functional and progressive. It provides learners with the foundational knowledge and digital skills they need to access learning, communicate, develop independence and participate in an increasingly digital world.
Technology is both something our learners learn about and a tool they learn to use purposefully. For some pupils, this may mean developing keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, online and software skills; for others, it may mean learning to use switches, eye gaze or AAC devices to communicate, make choices, control their environment and participate more independently.
Learners develop an understanding of how technology works and how it can be used to communicate, create, find information, solve problems and participate in everyday life. Through developmentally appropriate experiences, pupils also develop early computing concepts such as cause and effect, sequencing, making choices, following instructions, problem-solving and, where appropriate, programming and coding.
Digital skills are explicitly taught and systematically revisited, but they are not confined to Computing lessons. Learners have regular opportunities to practise, apply and generalise their skills across English, Mathematics, Science, creative subjects, Preparation for Adulthood, work-related learning and the wider school environment.
For learners with complex communication, sensory or physical needs, technology can provide an essential means of communication, choice, interaction and control. Switches, AAC, touchscreens, eye gaze and other assistive technologies enable pupils to participate actively in learning and develop greater independence.
Online safety and digital resilience are embedded throughout the curriculum. Learners are supported to develop an appropriate understanding of how to use technology safely, responsibly and respectfully.
Through a personalised, relevant and progressive curriculum, we aim to ensure that every learner develops the digital knowledge, skills and confidence they need to participate as independently as possible in school, the wider community and life beyond Ridgewood.
