Computing at Westminster Under School comprises the study of Computer Science, Digital Literacy, and Information Technology. Our curriculum aims to equip our pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Computing ensures that pupils become digitally literate and work to a level suitable for the future workplace and to participate in an ever-changing digital world.
Curriculum
Computer Science
Pupils are taught key aspects of Computer Science knowledge, skills, and understanding to ensure that they confidently apply computational thinking to solving problems, such as decomposing problems and writing algorithms. They are taught how to design, write, and debug in a range of programming languages, such as Scratch and Python. Pupils code AI applications and learn how to code interactive websites. Pupils learn about a range of Computer Science topics from binary to cybersecurity to computer networks. Pupils gain a rich understanding of the subject by working with a range of different applications and hardware.
Digital Literacy
Evaluating digital content is increasingly important. Pupils learn these skills and to use technology safely, respectfully, and responsibly. They are also taught how to protect their online identity and privacy and to recognise inappropriate content, contact and conduct, and learn how to report concerns. e-Safety is an important part of the curriculum. Pupils sign a digital copy of the Acceptable Use Policy and we celebrate Safer Internet Day every year. We also invite external speakers to support the work we do in lessons. Opportunities are taken throughout the academic year to embed e-safety into our curriculum, from searching online to the ethics of AI.
Information Technology
It is critical at a young age that pupils become familiar and confident users of different software and hardware to ensure that they can progress in other subjects and in the future workplace. Pupils are taught how to collect, analyse, evaluate, and present data and information.
Computing across the wider curriculum at WUS
Computing is embedded into every subject at the Under School. The Under School has interactive screens in all classrooms, specialist subject-specific technology, School-owned 1:1 devices for pupils in Years 6 to 8, specialist Computer Suites in the Art and Music Departments, as well as banks of laptops and iPads available for use in any lesson. Subject teachers use a range of hardware and applications, including AI tools, to support teaching and learning. We view technology as a tool to be used judiciously and when applicable, to enhance teaching and learning.
Enrichment
Pupils can attend specific clubs for their year group during break and lunch times to supplement what they do in the lessons. Furthermore, pupils use these opportunities to participate in the UK Bebras Competition and the Perse Coding Challenge. We also run the Robotics Club, which consists of our entry in the First Lego League Competition. Pupils also use Tech Club as an opportunity to present detailed talks on topics, such as AI. We organise trips and visiting speakers to offer a real-life context to what pupils learn. The Computing Department’s clubs are a great opportunity to develop specialist skills in a programming language, such as the Python Club, which is run by our confident programmers.
Departmental Staff
Mr Suki Singh
— Head of Computing; Head of Year 7
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“We want our pupils to develop a passion for Computing, ensuring that they all have the necessary knowledge, skills, and understanding to be confident, safe, and ethical users of technology. We hope that they will have fun in the process and use their abilities and talents to help wider society.”
— Mr Suki Singh, Head of Department
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