No, but the way the Rose review looks at it, and indeed the way we look at it, is that ICT is one of the key skills needed to access and enrich learning of all kinds, including science. That's why it has been put in with key skills; it's all about communication, and in the world in which our children are growing up, it is key: whatever they do, they will have to be ICT-literate. ICT connects all areas of the curriculum. We're a junior school, and 20%-30% of children aren't connected at home. That makes school provision even more important. That's why it's vital that ICT is seen as a key skill; if you aren't using it all the time, you forget how to do it. From next year, our teachers will deliver ICT and use it as a tool right across the curriculum.
Parent, East Yorkshire
I would hate to think it was more important; at primary level, I don't think parents or teachers should have to decide. If ICT can work side-by-side with science that's fabulous, and today's teachers are fantastic at juggling subjects. Our foundation level is all free play. Children can dip in and out to play in the sand, the water or the make-believe area, and we also have two computers. The children can log on and find their own way about. I think it's fab to bring in ICT as a core subject and my only concern is for families, like mine, who can't afford the internet at home. You can bang on about going to the library but it's not the same.
Aged 11, London
It's not more important than science, but it's just as important. My parents say I know more about computers than them because I've grown up in a generation with computers. Safety is very important so I make sure all my information is protected. Some children don't have a computer and that can be negative; it'll be difficult if they can't practise. I'm learning Microsoft Excel. My teacher says it will be important when we start work; it's good to know why we're learning what we're learning. My mum doesn't work with computers, but they're important to her working life. I've used computers since reception; we did typing, and learned how to use colour and WordArt. By year 6, I was learning how to use Excel. I think ICT should be a core topic - but so should other subjects like PE.