Across all areas of the National Curriculum at Riverside Primary School, teachers set suitable learning challenges, respond to pupils’ diverse learning needs, modify the curriculum to remove any potential barriers to learning and assessment for particular individuals or groups of pupils.

Teachers have an excellent knowledge of the needs of all pupils in their classes and are able to plan personalised and differentiated learning experiences which meet the needs of individual pupils. Inclusion is always at the centre of any teaching approach.

Computing -  Supporting Pupils with SEND

Computing lessons equip pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. Using a variety of technology, including using the internet, apps and software is essential in Computing lessons, as well as understanding how to code, program and debug. Safe use of technology and E-Safety is also an essential part of the Computing curriculum, teaching pupils how to keep themselves and others safe. Computing has deep links with Mathematics, Science and Design and Technology, ensuring that learners become digitally literate, offering the opportunity to learn in different ways.

To include pupils with SEN and/or disabilities, teachers consider incorporating materials that are accessible for learners of all abilities. Barriers learners may have within a lesson are considered and support strategies are embedded to help them overcome these.

Learning is scaffolded to that learners benefit from support during initial phases of learning and tasks are adapted to make the curriculum accessible for all.

To make Computing lessons inclusive, teachers focus their instruction and encouragement on solving problems and the problem-solving process, rather than finding a single right answer as there can be multiple solutions to a problem. Guided inquiry, where learners can ask questions, explore, try different approaches and change their own and other’s ideas are encouraged. Learner’s that struggle with complex multi-step problem solving are given additional support in the beginning which is then slowly removed as learners build their skills and confidence.

Teachers have high expectations of all learners in Computing and pupils are encouraged to reflect on their own belief systems to ensure they hold high expectations for themselves. Teachers build relationships with pupils in order to connect their learning with their own personal experiences. In Computing, real life stories and experiences are used that are meaningful and enable pupils to relate.

Usage of vocabulary and words within a lesson are considered by teachers to ensure all learners are able to encounter the terms, empowering them to access a higher level of language in which they can communicate and understand ideas across the curriculum. Vocabulary is embedded into classroom displays and lesson activities.