This is the 4th incremental blog in the Established Leader section of the Primary Computing Leadership Journey. The elements in this section are covered in more detail in the brand new whole day face to face course: Leading Primary Computing Module 3. Please click on the infographic below to navigate through the different sections and access all of the resources and training:
Since when have primary schools had any money? We are constantly looking to scrimp and save here and there, trying to figure out the maximum impact a resource or scheme will have before we pay a subscription, wondering if we can really afford that amazing school trip, trying to find alternative sources of raising funds so we can provide our pupils with the best. Then the server needs replacing, or the WIFI needs upgrading, or we need to move everything to a cloud based system which costs an arm and a leg. Sorry to paint a pretty bleak picture, but this seems to be the story in many schools I visit. Please bear in mind that not all subject leaders have access to - or control of - the budget that is associated with their subject. Sometimes the budget is managed by SLT and can only be allocated by means of formal request. What is the situation in your school?
Sometimes we are gifted with a small amount of money, or we have to fiercely fight for it for our subject. But then comes the question, what do we do with it? What is the priority? Should it be equipment like new laptops? What about tablets? Are Chromebooks the way to go? Or should we spend it on educational toys like Beebots, code-a-pillars or physical computing kit like Crumbles or Micro:bits? What if we don’t have enough for a class set, is there any point in buying it? Will teachers ever get it out for just half the class? Will it just sit in the cupboard collecting dust?
All these questions and more are covered in the free new whole day face to face course, Leading Primary Computing Module 3 in session 3. This course will help you to distinct between your ‘wish’ list and your ‘need it now’ list. It will also show you ways to make the most of your existing tech, as well as point towards possible funding opportunities. One of the most important things to recognise in computing, is that you don’t always need to learn on a computer. In other words, there are plenty of ideas and resources for learning concepts, approaches and skills through practical activities, role play, storytelling and physical activities (Some of which are described in this quick read: Culturally Relevant Pedagogy). These techniques should be employed regardless of your tech situation as they really help to embed the learning, but they also really help relieve the pressure of each class needing devices for each child for every lesson.
Do your pupils have one device between two? Have you discovered the practice of ‘paired programming’ yet? This is not just the situation where pupils are sharing one device, but a whole way of working in collaboration that helps to increase learning and reduce errors. Have a look at the fantastic quick read all about Paired Programming on the NCCE’s pedagogy page.
Sometimes local businesses can get invited to contribute (some businesses have a dedicated charity fund or public liaison person that specifically gives back to the community), I remember the time we got given a 3D printer in one of the schools I worked at! Please excuse the fact that I look like a superimposed giant in this photo…
There are many more ideas out there to be discovered, have you had any great experiences with local companies? Charities? Rocket funds? Governors? Your PTA or ‘Friends Of’ groups? Tell us in the comments!
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