Image of Year 6: Geography - Data Collection Methods
22 Jan

Year 6: Geography - Data Collection Methods

In geography this week year 6 have been learning about different data collection methods. We decided which would be the most efficient for our current enquiry question.

Image of Reception Class - Counting the Buttons on the Gingerbread Man
21 Jan

Reception Class - Counting the Buttons on the Gingerbread Man

Reception class have been using the smart board to support their learning in class. The children had to subitise or count the buttons in the gingerbread man and find the correct numeral.

Image of Year 1 - Computing - Following An Alogrithm
21 Jan

Year 1 - Computing - Following An Alogrithm

Year 1 are working on the unit Lego Builders. They are learning how precise instructions are essential for programming a computer. This week they followed a set of instructions to produce a coloured bird.

Image of Year 3 English - Identifying Features of A Story
16 Jan

Year 3 English - Identifying Features of A Story

In English Year 3 are enjoying reading the book, The Stone Age Boy. Using chromebooks they read the story in groups and worked together to identify the different features.

Image of Minecraft Church
15 Jan

Minecraft Church

Minecraft Church is back! Come along to St James Church Over Darwen, commencing Thursday 23rd January.

Image of Online Safety - TikTok
15 Jan

Online Safety - TikTok

With 22% of its billion-strong userbase being between the ages of 13 and 17, the popularity of TikTok among the younger generation is indisputable

Image of Computing - Year 4 - Artificial Intelligence
14 Jan

Computing - Year 4 - Artificial Intelligence

Year 4 have greatly enjoying our computing unit on Artificial Intelligence. We have been looking at how it can make everyday life easier and how it can be helpful. We loved testing out the Alexa and exploring what we can learn from it.

Image of Year 3 Computers - Learning How To Touch Type
14 Jan

Year 3 Computers - Learning How To Touch Type

Year 3 have been learning how to touch type in their computer lessons. They looked at how they should be sitting and then followed a coloured guide showing them which fingers they had to use on which key. Today they looked at using the home keys.

Image of Year 5 Computing - Designing our 3D Games!
9 Jan

Year 5 Computing - Designing our 3D Games!

In Computing this half term, Year 5 will be designing and creating our own 3D computer games! We all enjoyed setting the scene yesterday, evaluating some games on Purple Mash, deciding on our themes and beginning to plan our settings. We have lots of very imaginative ideas!

Image of Year 6: Computing - Researching Networks
9 Jan

Year 6: Computing - Researching Networks

This week in computing year 6 have been researching networks and the internet, with a focus on building our knowledge of subject specific vocabulary.

Image of Online Safety - Justalk Kids
8 Jan

Online Safety - Justalk Kids

JusTalk Kids is an alternative version of the JusTalk app, aimed at an audience aged 13 and under. As that upper age limit suggests, this social networking platform is intended to be suitable for youngsters, providing them with a space of their own to interact with a community their own age. Unfortunately, there are still risks associated with JusTalk Kids, so it’s vitally important for parents and educators to understand the potential dangers for those who use the app. Our free guide delves into the most prominent online safety concerns of JusTalk Kids, while also letting you know how to ensure that children can be protected, should they wish to create an account.

Image of Online Safety  -Safety on Social Media
18 Dec

Online Safety -Safety on Social Media

With social media’s ever-growing popularity among children and young people, it’s important for adults to keep themselves apprised of the associated risks and help youngsters to navigate these platforms in a safe, responsible manner. However, it can be difficult to know exactly how to protect children and young people while they use these apps. This free guide offers you expert tips on supporting youngsters to enjoy the features of social media while avoiding the risks.

Image of Reception - Computing - Colouring Christmas Pictures
16 Dec

Reception - Computing - Colouring Christmas Pictures

Reception Class have been using 2 Paint a Picture to create their own festive pictures. They were able to select different patterns and textures to decorate their pictures.

Image of Year 2 Computing - Magic Squares
16 Dec

Year 2 Computing - Magic Squares

In Computing today we learned how to use the totalling tool and created our own Magic Squares.

Image of Nursery - Science - What's in the Gift?
11 Dec

Nursery - Science - What's in the Gift?

This week the children in nursery class have been investigating the hidden objects inside presents. The children were asked what they thought would be inside, but we couldn't see anything! Once the gift was placed on the light table, a shadow appeared, the children were challenged to spot characteristics of the shadows they could see to enable them match the correct gifts. The children really enjoyed choosing their own presents and observing what objects appeared when placed on the light table. 

Image of Nursery - Computing - Navigating purple Mash. Create A Stocking
9 Dec

Nursery - Computing - Navigating purple Mash. Create A Stocking

In Nursery class this week we have been looking at Christmas celebrations. To tie in with this, the children decorated their own stockings on purple mash. The children have been learning how to navigate the draw function on this website, understanding that they need to scroll to find the different colours and making the link between the colour selected and observing the change in colour of their marks. The children made marks on their stockings in different ways, some children made lines and movements with their finger to create marks and others decided to tap the screen to create dots. They made some beautiful stockings!

Image of Year 1 - Computing - Creating A Pictogram
4 Dec

Year 1 - Computing - Creating A Pictogram

Year 1 collated data by rolling a dice 20 times. They then produced pictograms to represent the data.

Image of Wake Up Wednesday
27 Nov

Wake Up Wednesday

As one of the most popular messaging apps available, Snapchat sees an enormous amount of usage across the globe – with a significant number of those utilising the platform being under 18. For that reason, it’s important to understand the potential risks to younger users when spending time on this app. Of course, it can be difficult to identify every hazard associated with the platform, let alone what can be done to mitigate these concerns. Our guide lays out the key online safety risks of Snapchat, as well as how to safeguard young people while they use the app.

Image of Year 4 Christmas Card Competition
20 Nov

Year 4 Christmas Card Competition

We had great fun completing our cards for the Christmas Card competition this week! We showed some real creativity and there were some fabulous outcomes!

Image of Year 3 Computing - Making Our Own Computer Program
14 Nov

Year 3 Computing - Making Our Own Computer Program

In computing Year 3 have been using 2code to make their own computer program. We realised we could use the repeat button rather than writing the same code multiple times. We managed to make the turtle draw a square when the button was pressed.

Image of Year 1 Computing -  Creating A Pictogram To Show How Year 1 Travel To School
13 Nov

Year 1 Computing - Creating A Pictogram To Show How Year 1 Travel To School

Year 1 collected data from the class about the different ways in which we travel to school. We drew pictures to show our individual data and then created a pictogram to show the information visually. Later, we used our pictogram to talk about the number of children that travel in different ways.

Image of Nursery - Computing - Can You Fill The Fruit Bowl?
4 Nov

Nursery - Computing - Can You Fill The Fruit Bowl?

In Nursery class this week we have been reading 'Kitchen disco'. The children have been learning the names and characteristics of the different fruits in the story. During story time the children were tasked with identifying the fruit and drawing their representation on the interactive screen. They thought about the colour they may need to select, the shape of the fruit and the size of the fruit. The children worked together to complete our fruit bowl, great teamwork, Nursery class.

Image of Online Safety - Fortnite
30 Oct

Online Safety - Fortnite

Over the years, Fortnite has become a household name in the gaming community. It was one of the first titles in the ‘battle royale’ subgenre, where players are thrown into a chaotic free-for-all on a sprawling map and fight until only one remains. Its cartoonish presentation and satisfying gameplay loop make it a potentially attractive choice for young players. However, it’s important to remember that online safety risks are always present – especially in multiplayer games – and Fortnite is no exception. This free guide, put together with expert input, tells you all you need to know about the safety concerns of this popular title and offers advice on how to protect children and young people as they enjoy the game.

Image of Online Safety - Horror Films and Age Ratings.
16 Oct

Online Safety - Horror Films and Age Ratings.

Ofcom’s latest Media Use and Attitudes Report states that most children can watch streamed films on a mobile device both in and out of the home, with 80% of UK children watching films on phones, tablets or laptops. That’s a lot of youngsters who might be using their own gadgets to watch something suitably spooky this Halloween season or perhaps, something a little too frightening. With older children in particular, it can be difficult knowing how to manage their increasing interest in more mature content – including horror films, in many cases – let alone knowing how best to safeguard them from inappropriate material. Our free guide offers expert advice not only on the risks of exposure to horror films and other potentially upsetting content, but also on preventing young viewers from seeing this material or protecting them from being too deeply affected by it if they do.

Image of Nursery - PSHE - Birthday Celebrations
9 Oct

Nursery - PSHE - Birthday Celebrations

Our new story for this week is 'Happy Birthday Lulu'. The children have really enjoyed reading about Lulu's celebrations on her big day, so we also took a look at our own birthday celebrations. We took turns in tapping the gifts on the screen to reveal the images behind. The children loved sharing pictures of their birthdays with the class and likewise, they enjoyed looking at their friends celebrations too. We discussed what items we could see in the pictures, presents, cakes, balloons, family members and more!

Image of Year 3 - DT  Researching Where Fruit And Vegetables Are Grown.
8 Oct

Year 3 - DT Researching Where Fruit And Vegetables Are Grown.

This week in DT, Year 3 have been using the chromebooks to research where fruits and vegetables are grown around the world. Some of the things they discovered where that coffee comes from South America, oranges from Europe and mangoes from Asia.

Image of Nursery - Computing - Can You Design A Cake?
7 Oct

Nursery - Computing - Can You Design A Cake?

The children in Nursery class have been working on their computing skills this week. They have learnt how to navigate software on purple mash to design a birthday cake. Using their fingers, hands and even noses, the children have been able to select different cake toppings and make marks of their choice on the screen, watching their creations develop as they drew.

Image of Online Safety - In Game Chat
2 Oct

Online Safety - In Game Chat

If you’ve played or seen any online games from the past few years, you’ve probably noticed that almost every title of this kind has some kind of chat functionality. Whether allowing players to send text messages to one another or letting them use their mics to chat together on voice if you’re on a multiplayer game, chances are you can talk to your fellow gamers, one way or another. Sadly, such a function comes with its fair share of risks – as is to be expected with a feature intended to connect gamers from around the world and it is immensely important for parents and educators to understand these concerns and help young players address them. That’s why we’ve put together this free guide, breaking down the most prevalent issues associated with in-game chat and letting you know how to keep youngsters as safe as possible if or when they’re exposed to this feature.

Image of Online Safety - Instagram
25 Sep

Online Safety - Instagram

Instagram is one of the most well-known social media platforms around, frequented by users of all ages all over the world, and allowing them to share photos and videos with friends, family and the wider public if they wish. The site has many younger users, allowing people as young as 13 to create an account and engage with its community. As a popular choice of platform for teenagers, it's vital that parents and educators understand the risks associated with the site and what can be done to mitigate them. This free guide lets you know about the most prominent safety concerns on Instagram, offering expert advice on how to make young people’s experiences on the app as secure as possible.

Image of Reception Class - Computing
5 Sep

Reception Class - Computing

As part of our settling in week, the children have been exploring the different challenges set on the interactive board! The children have been developing their motor skills and their hand/eye coordination.

Image of Year 3 English - Researching Dogs For Their Own Stories
11 Jul

Year 3 English - Researching Dogs For Their Own Stories

During English Year 3 have been reading 101 Dalmatians. Today they have been using the Chromebooks to research different breeds of dog. They will use this information to create a new character for their story.

Image of Online Safety - What Parents Need to Know About Sharing Images
10 Jul

Online Safety - What Parents Need to Know About Sharing Images

The sharing of intimate images online can be a dangerous avenue through which abusers seek to exploit children and young people, forcibly exposing them to explicit material, coercing them into sharing self-generated intimate images, and extorting them with the threat of sharing such images more widely. From reputational impact to potential blackmail or emotional distress, and even legal consequences, exposure to this harmful behaviour can have a severe impact. It’s important to remember that the creation and distribution of explicit material featuring under-18s – even by the child themselves – is illegal under UK law. Our guide looks at the serious concerns associated with this behaviour, and lets parents and educators know how best to address these issues and protect young people. Sources https://www.childline.org.uk/

Image of Year 2 Computing Repeating Patterns
10 Jul

Year 2 Computing Repeating Patterns

Year 2 explored the art work of William Morris and then created their own repeating wallpaper patterns using the pattern tool on 2Paint.

Image of Pre School- Computing and Maths- Recognise Numbers
10 Jul

Pre School- Computing and Maths- Recognise Numbers

The children have had lots of fun this week developing their knowledge of numbers and counting 1 to 1 correspondence. The children added legs to the octopus and used different colours to add spots as they counted, recognising numbers as they go.

Image of Nursery - Computing - Can You Draw A Sea Animal?
8 Jul

Nursery - Computing - Can You Draw A Sea Animal?

The children in Nursery class have accessed the interactive board to create a picture of a sea animal. They each chose their favorite sea animal from the basket, we discussed what it was called and what characteristics we could see on the animal. The children then selected a colour or texture for their picture and began to make marks on the board to represent their sea animal. They made some fabulous masterpieces and were very proud of their work!

Image of Year 6 Geography
4 Jul

Year 6 Geography

Year 6 have been researching about Rainforests for our Geography topic all about the Amazon and Brazil. We created infographic posters with the information we discovered, which included the layers of the rainforest, and the creatures which live there.

Image of Online Safety - Online Trolling
3 Jul

Online Safety - Online Trolling

The term “trolling” refers to sending hurtful or provocative comments – often done anonymously online – to provoke a reaction or cause emotional distress. Anonymity can embolden people into saying things they wouldn’t dare say in person. Euro 2024 and other tournaments tend to put an emphasis on this, with the abuse of both players and fans often increasing during such events. This free guide explores the phenomenon of online trolling, detailing its risks and letting you know how to safeguard children from this harmful behaviour. Some people online simply get a kick out of hurting people’s feelings, making it their mission to get a rise out of anyone they encounter. These people – known as “trolls” – are known for intentionally engaging in offensive or abusive behaviour to upset others online or provoke them into sinking to their level. At the height of events such as Euro 2024, when rivalries between various supporters reach an apex, trolling tends to see a bit of an uptick. Unfortunately, while “just ignore them” is genuinely good advice, it can prove very difficult to put into practice. This is especially true for children and young people, who are often still learning how to manage their emotions and sometimes react impulsively to name-calling and other mistreatment. This Wake up Wednesday, however, we’re offering expert guidance on how to keep youngsters safe from online trolling – both avoiding it entirely and responding to it effectively. Sources https://www.esafety.gov.au/young-people/trolling https://www.theguardian.com/football/2021/nov/03/football-fan-jailed-for-racially-abusing-rashford-sancho-and-saka-after-final-euro-2020 https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-13359555/Tottenham-fan-hurls-abuse-Declan-Rice-heads-exit-corner-leads-Arsenals-goal-thrilling-win-Tottenham.html

Image of Year 6: Exploring Coding with Microbits
27 Jun

Year 6: Exploring Coding with Microbits

Year 6 have been lucky enough this afternoon to have Rev Kev come along to our class and help us to code the Microbits. We have created thermometers as a class, and then went on to exploring and creating our own coded projects, including 'rock paper scissors', making a rocket fly, making them talk to each other, and making music!

Image of Year 4 Computing - Effective Searching Online
26 Jun

Year 4 Computing - Effective Searching Online

In year 4 this week we have been continuing our topic of using Google (search engine) effectively. We have been finding out if it is true or false that a goldfish has a 3 second memory or that a camel can walk 100 miles without water... Also the truth whether the Great Wall of China is visible from Space!

Image of Year 2 Computing Creating Fact Files
20 Jun

Year 2 Computing Creating Fact Files

In computing we have been looking at ways of presenting information. We had a go at creating fact files on the United Kingdom. We also developed our skills in inserting images and inserting capital letters on the keyboard.

Image of Pre School- Computing-Making the Robot Move
19 Jun

Pre School- Computing-Making the Robot Move

The children have been shown how to use the robot truck. Using the buttons to move it forward, backwards and side to side. We used the cards to plan and give instructions to the robot and watched it move.

Image of Year 4 Computing - Effective Searching
19 Jun

Year 4 Computing - Effective Searching

This week we have continued our work on effective searches within our computing topic and how we can effectively search the internet using key words and phrases to find the information that we need and also how to effectively filter out the information that we don't. It has been an exciting, creative lesson.  

Image of Year 5 Computing  Physical Concept Maps
18 Jun

Year 5 Computing Physical Concept Maps

During our computing lesson the children discussed what they thought a concept map was. After the discussion the year 5 children created a physical concept map on the KS2 yard which they really enjoyed.

Image of Year 5  Geography- Digimaps
13 Jun

Year 5 Geography- Digimaps

In our Geography lesson we looked at Darwen on Digimaps. We then looked at the distance from school to another locations.

Image of Year 4 Computing - Search Engines
12 Jun

Year 4 Computing - Search Engines

This week we have been looking at Internet Search Engines and how to best find the information, check its accuracy and how to interpret and sort results.

Image of Year 4 Computing - Persuasive Letters and Posters
15 May

Year 4 Computing - Persuasive Letters and Posters

Year 4 have been building upon their flow charts last week and writing persuasive letters and posters campaigning for a new playground in computing.

Image of Reception Class - Introducing the Bee Bots
14 May

Reception Class - Introducing the Bee Bots

Today in Reception the children have been programming the Bee Bots to follow an instruction, referring back to the arrows we learned about last week. The children had retained the names of the arrows, along with being able to correctly identify left and right. They could navigate the Bee Bot to fllow the directions of the arrow, explaining what was happening.

Image of Micro:bit Club - Creating a Digital Pet
14 May

Micro:bit Club - Creating a Digital Pet

Today the children have been programming their Micro:bit to create a digitial pet. There were lots of variables needed and lots of code to debug! The children showed gret perseverence and were proud of their finished program.

Image of Year 3 - Computing - Adding an Attachment to an Email.
13 May

Year 3 - Computing - Adding an Attachment to an Email.

In our computer lesson today Year 3 have been learning how to add an attachment to an email. They had to reply to an email from the King then attach the safety quiz that they had made last lesson.

Image of Year 6 Maths Quiz
10 May

Year 6 Maths Quiz

Year 6 have been working really hard this week on maths revising and preparing for SATs, so this morning we had a lot of fun testing our knowledge on a Maths quiz on Kahoot.

Image of Online Safety - Helldivers 2
8 May

Online Safety - Helldivers 2

Within the last few months, Helldivers 2 has propelled to immense popularity in the gaming community, with players of all ages enjoying its frenetic combat, humorous presentation, and challenging gameplay. Whether they’re cooperating with friends or competing with strangers, the game has attracted many young players despite its higher age rating. As can be expected from an online game – especially one rated 18+ – there are several inherent online safety risks posed to children and young people who play Helldivers 2; from the content of the game itself to the dangers of interacting with strangers online. Our guide highlights the most prominent hazards of Helldivers 2 and provides you with top tips for keeping its younger players safe.

Image of Reception - Understanding the World - Understanding Arrows
7 May

Reception - Understanding the World - Understanding Arrows

Reception class discussed what the different arrows mean and their names (forwards, back, left and right). They then had to follow my instruction when I showed them an arrow, moving one step in that direction.

Image of Online Safety - Ofcom Media Report 2024
1 May

Online Safety - Ofcom Media Report 2024

On 19th April 2024, Ofcom released their annual Media Use and Attitudes Report, detailing the findings of several surveys and their implications for parents, children and young people in the UK. These statistics often include plenty of thought-provoking information relating to online safety. The report itself is extremely extensive, so instead we've provided a bespoke selection of data gathered by Ofcom about children and young people’s experiences on social media, video games and the like. Check our guide for a thorough breakdown of the headline findings.

Image of Year 2 Computing - Creating Buttons
1 May

Year 2 Computing - Creating Buttons

In computing this week we were developing our coding skills by learning how to add a button to our code.

Image of Online Safety - Shopping Platforms
24 Apr

Online Safety - Shopping Platforms

Long gone are the days where eBay and Amazon were the only means of buying quality items online. The rise of user-friendly, accessible shopping apps has meant that getting clothes, gadgets and other goodies delivered direct to your door can be accomplished with a few touches of your phone’s screen while you’re on the go. These apps aren’t without their issues, however, and users still run the risk of scams, data breaches and other online safety concerns. Being aware of these dangers will go a long way to keeping your money and information safe, so you can still enjoy what these shopping apps have to offer. Our guide has some top tips to help protect young people on these purchasing platforms.

Image of Reception and Y1 - Guided Reading
24 Apr

Reception and Y1 - Guided Reading

Reception and Year 1 have been developing their early reading skills. They have been applying their phonetic knowledge to help them decode the words in the book and they have been working on improving their fluency when reading. The children have really enjoyed these interactive reading sessions and have used the Chromebooks to use the ebook feature, this has been a real hit too!

Image of Nursery Class - Computing - 'Where's Spot?', Designing A Puppy.
22 Apr

Nursery Class - Computing - 'Where's Spot?', Designing A Puppy.

Nursery class has been working on Purple Mash to design their own puppy after reading our story 'Where's spot?'. The children selected the fur pattern they wanted and used their hands to create different marks on their puppy stencil.

Image of Micro:bit Club - Creating a Name Badge
18 Apr

Micro:bit Club - Creating a Name Badge

Today in Micro:bit Club, we took a look at what a Micro:bit is and connected it to a computer. We then wrote a simple algorithm to create an electronic name badge.

Image of Reception - Purple Mash - Spring Flowers
16 Apr

Reception - Purple Mash - Spring Flowers

Reception Class have been using the Purple Mash program- 2Paint to create their flowers. The children had to select their paint and use the toolbar to adjust the thickness of their paint. They used the pen on the interactive board to place their marks and create their flowers.

Image of Online Safety - What Parents and Educators Need to Know about Township
3 Apr

Online Safety - What Parents and Educators Need to Know about Township

Potentially addictive online games are nothing new, but the specifics of this kind of media can vary enormously – and, as a consequence, the risks in each individual game are just as diverse. The city-builder Township is no exception: providing its legions of devotees with accessible, satisfying fun … but exposing them to potential hazards at the same time. However, any safeguarding issues that the game might have can (with a little knowhow) be neutralised – allowing young players to have some engrossing fun without adults needing to worry about children’s data, their money or their mental wellbeing. Our guide outlines how to help young gamers enjoy Township safely and responsibly.

Image of Online Safety - Wake up Wednesday - Clickbait
27 Mar

Online Safety - Wake up Wednesday - Clickbait

While scrolling online, you’ll almost inevitably have come across posts or links with headlines like “You Won’t Believe These 10 Crazy Facts about …”. Such lurid language – and the often-dubious nature of the content it promotes – has become something of a running joke on the internet. Yet while these articles are often laughed at by communities online, they can have an insidious side. Clickbait, as it’s known, can frequently function as part of a trap: intended to draw users in for the sake of advertising revenue or, in worse cases, masking an attempting to collect their personal information. This #WakeUpWednesday guide explores the various risks of clickbait and offers some top tips for evading the pitfalls of this controversial marketing technique.

Image of Year 3 - Computing - Simulation
21 Mar

Year 3 - Computing - Simulation

In computers year 3 have been looking at simulation. They have learnt how it can represent real and imaginary situations. The children gave examples of how simulations are used for fun and work. VR headsets are used for gaming and simulators are used by pilots to learn to fly.

Image of 10 Top Tips for Parents and Educators: Encouraging Open Conversations at Home
20 Mar

10 Top Tips for Parents and Educators: Encouraging Open Conversations at Home

Cultural and technological changes have made the experiences of today’s children vastly different to our own childhoods; it can be challenging to engage youngsters in open, honest conversation – especially about more sensitive topics. This, combined with many children’s instinct to avoid “rocking the boat”, can make it difficult to stay up to date with the goings on in their lives. However, it’s hugely important that trusted adults still offer an empathetic ear and feel able to encourage young people to open up about their day-to-day activities. This #WakeUpWednesday guide provides ten top tips for promoting open conversations with children – helping to make sure there’s someone they know they can turn to in times of need.

Image of Year 1 - Computer Science - Coding
13 Mar

Year 1 - Computer Science - Coding

Year 1 enjoyed a great coding lesson in computing today. They made planes move along runways and take off by organising their code. Later they made scary ghosts and bats move across a haunted house!

Image of Year 2 - PSHE - Online Safety
11 Mar

Year 2 - PSHE - Online Safety

In PSHE today, we had a discussion about what the internet is and how we can stay safe online. We focussed on staying safe when playing games and only playing with people we know. If we don't feel safe we TAG it - tell a grown up!

Image of Year 3 - Computing - Graphs
29 Feb

Year 3 - Computing - Graphs

Today in computing year 3 have been looking at graphs. They collected information on the children's favourite colours, then using 2 graph on Purple Mash made their graphs to show their results.

Image of Year 2 - Computing - Binary
29 Feb

Year 2 - Computing - Binary

Computing- In computing this term we have been using 2 questions (a binary tree) to answer questions . A little like the Guess who game.

Image of Year 4 - Computing - Creating Programs
29 Feb

Year 4 - Computing - Creating Programs

Year 4 have been using the 'IF' function in their computing to create their own programmes that only run on a specific set of commands.

Image of Online Safety - Freedom of Speech
10 Jan

Online Safety - Freedom of Speech

Freedom of expression is enshrined in international law. Some individuals, however, misunderstand the right to share their opinions as a license to target others with the most horrendous prejudice. So how do we balance people’s prerogative to have their voice heard against everyone’s right to live in a respectful, inclusive society? This conflict frequently unfolds in the digital world. Online posters can be falsely accused of hate speech, while actual hate is often defended as merely being ‘free speech’. To help children and young people learn to identify the boundaries and recognise genuine hate speech when they see it, our #WakeUpWednesday guide provides some helpful definitions and guidelines.

Image of Online Safety - Settng Up Parental Controls
20 Dec

Online Safety - Settng Up Parental Controls

At this time of year, it’s highly possible that you have a new phone, games console or other digital device stashed somewhere at home, ready to be unwrapped. Many parents also prefer to place some protective measures on those gifts – to keep their child shielded from potential #OnlineSafety risks – while others would like to, but aren’t sure where to begin. Our guide shepherds you through the process of establishing parental controls on new internet-enabled devices, from smartphones to laptops to consoles. Simply find the device in question and read on to find out what options you have and how to enable them – letting children enjoy their shiny new gadget, without so much of the worry over where it might lead them.

Image of Online Safety - The Online Safety Act
29 Nov

Online Safety - The Online Safety Act

After a lengthy gestation period, the UK Government’s wide-ranging changes to the legislation around digital safeguarding have become enshrined in law as the Online Safety Act. The first of its kind in Britain, the act aims to improve protection for children online and clamp down on illegal material. Regulated by Ofcom, it will primarily impact social media platforms and companies which host user-generated content. The new legislation, however, also carries implications for schools and their staff. Although further developments are expected, our #WakeUpWednesday guide summarises the main points of the act that schools need to be aware of so far – outlining some specific areas that the new laws address and what effect, in practical terms, this will have on education providers.

Image of Online Safety - Black Friday and Cyber Monday
22 Nov

Online Safety - Black Friday and Cyber Monday

Gone are the days of Black Friday only existing in the physical environs of the high street. Now, both this retail landmark and its sister event, Cyber Monday, see deals and discounts displayed across almost every online retailer. The array of reductions makes this an ideal moment to treat a loved one (or yourself!) to those treasured items for considerably less than their usual cost. The frantic dash for the best bargains online, however, also harbours several risks: chiefly, cybercriminals hoping to exploit people’s excitement and hoodwink them out of their hard-earned cash. Our #WakeUpWednesday has some expert pointers on keeping your both your money and your personal information safe while still making the most of the spectacular sales.

Image of Year 4 Computing - Spreadsheets
22 Nov

Year 4 Computing - Spreadsheets

Year 4 have been busy using spreadsheets to create a budget party using formulas and amending their wish list to their given budget.

Image of Online Safety - Smart TVs
15 Nov

Online Safety - Smart TVs

Smart TVs have become more affordable in recent years, making them readily available to most consumers. These more advanced systems offer numerous features beyond those of a normal television set – chiefly, the ability to access the internet and interface with popular streaming services without the need for a set-top box or other intermediary device. This increased functionality, however, also brings additional threats to privacy, security and more – as you’d perhaps expect from any device capable of going online. As TV is such a cornerstone of our home lives, these dangers can be uniquely difficult to manage. Our #WakeUpWednesday guide breaks down the major risks, with tips on helping children to enjoy TV … stress free.

Image of The BBC micro:bits Have Landed!
10 Nov

The BBC micro:bits Have Landed!

We received some new tech in school today, a set of 30 BBC micro:bits. The BBC micro:bit is packed with inputs, outputs, sensors and radio communication features. You can find put more here https://microbit.org/ We can’t wait to get started with these!

Image of Online Safety Microtransactions
8 Nov

Online Safety Microtransactions

Does “free to play” really mean what it says? Many hit games cost nothing to download but make their money via microtransactions – a growing #OnlineSafety concern for parents of young gamers. Our #WakeUpWednesday guide has the details.

Image of Online Safety X
1 Nov

Online Safety X

Would you get an A for your knowledge of X? This #WakeUpWednesday, our free guide tells parents and carers about the #OnlineSafety risks – both new and familiar – to stay alert for on the platform formerly known as Twitter Download >> https://bit.ly/3Mq6t5p

Image of Wake Up Wednesday- Five Nights at Freddies
25 Oct

Wake Up Wednesday- Five Nights at Freddies

Move over Krueger, there's a new scary Freddy in town

Image of Purple Mash Club
25 Sep

Purple Mash Club

Purple Mash club have been busy tonight using 2Paint and 2Animate to create some pictures. We are going to try some coding next week!

Image of Reception - Coding
18 May

Reception - Coding

Some of the children have been exploring the coding critters. They have to follow the instruction cards to program the critter to move.

Image of Y4 RE - Places of Worship Around the World
16 May

Y4 RE - Places of Worship Around the World

Today in R.E, we have been looking at different places of worship around the world. We have made a presentation showing the different ones we found.

Image of Y1 Computing - Coding
23 Mar

Y1 Computing - Coding

Year 1 began their unit on Coding today and have organised a list of objects and actions into an algorithm.

Image of Y2 - Coding
9 Mar

Y2 - Coding

This week in Computing, Y2 have added a collision detection code to our algorithm and turned the frog into a prince! Another fantastic week, well done Year 2!

Image of Y2 Computing - Databases
9 Feb

Y2 Computing - Databases

Year 2 finished their computing unit today. The children worked really hard using a database to answer questions.

Image of Year 2 - Computing
24 Jan

Year 2 - Computing

Y2 continued our 'Questioning' unit in computing today and the children created a binary tree. They worked very hard with a partner or in a small group, thinking of questions and sorting the animals. Well done Year 2, some super work!

Image of Y2 - Computing - Questioning
17 Jan

Y2 - Computing - Questioning

We have been working on our 'Questioning' unit in computing this term. Today we looked at yes/no questions and played a game similar to guess who.

Image of How to be Green with your Tech
28 Sep

How to be Green with your Tech

Make a positive impact that lasts for years, by getting involved in #GreatBigGreenWeek! Our special #WakeUpWednesday guide explains how recycling your unwanted phones, computers and tablets can help the environment.

Image of Huggy Wuggy - Parental Information
14 Jul

Huggy Wuggy - Parental Information

There have been rising concerns nationally about a horror game character called Huggy Wuggy. There are multiple risks that can arise from children and young people being exposed to frightening content before they are prepared including- Added anxiety and stress – Children and young people are still growing and learning. They may not be at a level of emotional maturity that would be able to process frightening content, even if it is intentional. Horror games could hamper that growth by creating unnecessary anxiety and stress. Intrusive thoughts – Everyone has the ‘thing that goes bump in the night.’ If children play this game or watch it, the Boogeyman could easily be replaced with characters like Huggy Wuggy. This could cause children to lose focus or sleep and could interrupt family rest cycles. New fears – The manipulation of child-friendly items into threatening characters exploits the sense of security a child would feel around these things. They may suddenly be terrified of something that had never been a worry before. Top Tips for helping the child or young person in your care If your child hasn’t mentioned Huggy Wuggy or Poppy Playtime, don’t name it. You may pique their curiosity which in turn could lead to them searching out the content for themselves on platforms they might have access to. If you hear a child in your care mention Huggy Wuggy, pause and remain calm. It could be that they have overheard conversation about in school or online, it doesn’t necessarily mean they have viewed content or have a full understanding of who Huggy Wuggy is. Ask them about the content they enjoy watching online, and if anything they’ve seen has ever made them or their friends upset or scared. If they have seen anything upsetting, reassure them that they are safe. It’s important children know they can come and speak to you without fear of judgement. If necessary, ask them to show you the video or game, and follow appropriate reporting procedures if you are concerned. If you see content on social media or in the news regarding Huggy Wuggy or Poppy Playtime, think before you share it publicly. It may be more helpful to share a credible article with practical advice privately, e.g. through private messaging. Talk about Trusted Adults to teach young people about the importance of seeking help if something worries or upset them. If your child is having nightmares or is anxious about something they’ve watched, it’s important to have a conversation about expressing their feelings.

Image of Wake Up Wednesday - Equality Online
13 Jul

Wake Up Wednesday - Equality Online

The goal is equality. To celebrate a vibrant opening week of #weuro22, our #WakeUpWednesday guide has top tips for helping young fans ensure they know how to remain respectful online … and how to react if they see a red-card offence!

Image of Y4 Computing - Effective Searching
11 Jul

Y4 Computing - Effective Searching

Today in computing, Y4 looked at Effective Searching. They used the search engine Google to find lots of information!

Image of National Online Safety #WakeUpWednesday - Supporting Children to Deal with Uspetting Content
16 Mar

National Online Safety #WakeUpWednesday - Supporting Children to Deal with Uspetting Content

Raising children in the digital age seems to be getting tougher, with the world currently experiencing so many uncertainties. From the continuing impact of COVID-19 to the war in Ukraine, right now children across the globe can scarcely go online without being exposed to unsettling stories, images and ideas. Reassuring a concerned child can be difficult, especially when bad news feels omnipresent. We’ve put together some advice to help you in discussing upsetting events with young ones. In the guide, you'll find tips on a number of tips such as encouraging your child to ask questions, setting limits and to emphasis hope.

Image of 2's Room - Minibeasts.
11 Mar

2's Room - Minibeasts.

The Two's Room have been busy exploring Mini Beasts this week. Creating caterpillars with the play dough and using Mini Mash to create a garden centre adding flowers and bugs to go.

Image of Year 3 - Computing
22 Feb

Year 3 - Computing

Year 3 started their computing unit in branching databases today. We had to think of yes or no questions to sort objects into groups.

Image of Year 4 Computing
21 Jan

Year 4 Computing

Today in computing Year 4 inserted animals into cells to make a zoo. We needed to lock the cells so the lion can’t enter the cells and eat the animals!

Image of National Online Safety #WakeupWednesday - Horror Games
19 Jan

National Online Safety #WakeupWednesday - Horror Games

Terrific entertainment … or just plain terrifying? Our #WakeUpWednesday guide checks the doors are locked, turns on all the lights, and tells a chilling tale of #OnlineSafety threats that children could encounter in horror games. .

Image of National Online Safety #WakeUpWednesday Pokemon GO!
17 Nov

National Online Safety #WakeUpWednesday Pokemon GO!

Don’t fall when you're catching ‘em all! ⚡️

Image of Y2 - Computing Lesson
19 Oct

Y2 - Computing Lesson

The children started by working in pairs during our Computing lesson this week and spent time using google to search the answer to a number of questions about dinosaurs. They then signed on to Purple Mash and completed a quiz based on the information they found.

Image of Y4 Computing
5 Oct

Y4 Computing

Today in our computing lesson, Y4 learnt about plagiarism. We looked at a report about a man called Tim Berners Lee and found that it had been copied from Wikipedia! We then all scored really well in a plagiarism quiz. Great work year 4!