Intent

Our intent for Computing is to provide pupils with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to use technology safely, creatively, and effectively. We aim to ensure that all pupils develop a strong understanding of digital technology, programming, digital safety, and digital creativity. Through an engaging and high-quality computing curriculum, we seek to equip children with the computational thinking skills and digital literacy necessary for the modern world. We emphasise the importance of using technology responsibly and safely while fostering creativity and problem-solving skills that can be applied across various disciplines.

Implementation

Our Computing curriculum is structured to develop pupils’ understanding progressively from Early Years to Year 6. It encompasses four key areas:

• Digital Technology: Pupils learn about the fundamental building blocks of computing, including how digital devices and networks function. They develop an understanding of the internet as a global network and how it connects people worldwide.
• Digital Programming: Pupils engage with instructional commands to solve problems, automate tasks, and create digital programs. They learn to identify and correct errors in coding and explore a variety of programming environments and languages to enhance their problem-solving abilities.
• Digital Safety: Pupils are taught how to use the internet and digital technologies responsibly. They learn about online risks, how to stay safe when communicating online, and what to do if they encounter a problem. The curriculum fosters an awareness of digital citizenship, promoting fairness, respect, and responsible digital behaviour.
• Digital Creativity: Pupils use technology and apps to create meaningful digital content. They explore how multimedia can be used to convey messages and express ideas, developing an understanding of how digital tools support creativity and communication.

To ensure high-quality delivery, we use a combination of direct teaching, hands-on exploration, and cross-curricular links. Computing lessons are integrated into other subjects where appropriate, allowing children to apply their skills in real-world contexts. Extra-curricular clubs and events, such as coding clubs and online safety workshops, further enhance pupils’ experiences.

Impact

The impact of our Computing curriculum is evident in the confidence, creativity, and problem-solving abilities that pupils demonstrate when using technology. By the end of Year 6, pupils:

• Have a secure understanding of how digital technology functions and its role in everyday life.
• Can write, debug, and evaluate simple programs using various coding languages and platforms.
• Understand how to navigate the online world safely and responsibly, recognising risks and knowing how to seek help when needed.
• Use digital tools creatively to produce meaningful multimedia content and express their ideas effectively.
• Develop transferrable skills in computational thinking, logic, and collaboration that prepare them for future education and employment.

Through a well-structured and engaging Computing curriculum, we aim to ensure that all pupils leave primary school as confident, responsible, and innovative digital citizens, ready to thrive in an increasingly digital world.