Computing

A high-quality computing education equips pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world.

Computing has deep links with mathematics, science, and design & technology. The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the principles of information and computation and how digital systems work. Computing ensures that pupils become digitally literate, express themselves and develop their ideas through information and communication technology at a level suitable for their age, and lay the foundations to become active participants in a digital world.

Across each year group from Year 1 onwards, four units of Computing are taught each academic year. To prioritise online safety, the first unit is delivered during the first half of the autumn term as a dedicated Computing Day. During this day, pupils are introduced to the school’s online safety poster and acceptable use agreement, which they learn about and sign. This establishes clear expectations and a strong foundation for the safe and responsible use of technology throughout the year.

The remaining three units are taught across the rest of the academic year, with computing lessons delivered weekly during the terms in which they are taught. This ensures regular opportunities for pupils to build on prior learning and develop new knowledge and skills in a structured and progressive way.

In the Early Years Foundation Stage, Computing is delivered through the EYFS Framework within Understanding the World. Technology is introduced through carefully planned adult-led activities, continuous provision and purposeful play, enabling children to explore and develop early computing skills in meaningful and engaging contexts.

We teach computing weekly using the Teach Computing scheme from the National Centre for Computing Education, a comprehensive and progressive scheme of work. Covering all the national curriculum requirements and more, children will become confident in their use of computers as well as learning to understand and generate algorithms and code. Online safety is an important part of the scheme.

Computing

 

The science of today is the technology of tomorrow. – Edward Teller