7 schools in the UK

Richard works in 7 schools a week as an Technology Expert in Residence. Here are some examples of what is happening in these schools.

Randlay School is at the forefront of Computing. They helped with a national event called 'ScratchYourNose' and the older students are learning about HTML using W3Schools and online Notepad. They have 1 Raspberry Pi computer which students use. They have a good website  blog and twitter feed. They use time lapse photography to capture events

Hollinswood Primary School are developing their Computing Curriculum through the use of the creative Scratch program. Most students are using the online version to work on in school and at home. This also works on Android tablets and devices. Those with iPads have downloaded the free app ScratchJr. Jay from base 7 said 'I love scratch because I can edit the characters'

Apley Wood Primary School are using a combination of Scratch (including the 12 useful task cards) and the online coding tool J2eCode. This allows students to publish their games and animations via an e-safe blog. J2e software runs on all tablets as it does not rely on Flash player. Each team of teachers is writing a series of 6 lessons to get the process started. You can see some of their Kodu worls in the Kodu section below.

Southall Special School are using Scratch,  Espresso Coding (trial) and use a Lego Wedo kit as part of a Robot Club. They have their own student video section on their website. This includes examples of algorithms in the context of cooking. They are buying in to some of the Switched on Computing modules. I work with specific students on the Autism Spectrum that LOVE computing. They have made a great video about Algorithms using Makaton sign language https://youtu.be/7uETgP6y4Tw 

Holmer Lake School have completed cross curricular work using the Daisy the Dinosaur app. and have worked extensively with ipads. All teachers are expected to update the blog and they have completed work on animation ,robotics and e-awareness. 

John Wilkinson School have trialled the use of the input device the Makeymakey board  Students are being encouraged to explore text based coding (Javascript) trough w3schools.

William Reynolds Primary have their own dedicated computing page on their website. After 2 staff meetings on the new curriculum Richard has supported lessons planned by the teacher. Each year group team are writing a 6 lesson block of Computer Science activities based on the CAS Primary Guidance. Lego Wedo Guide here from the school.