Computing

Our Vision for Computing

At Old Hill Primary School, we recognise that computing is a vital life skill. Our computing curriculum is sequenced to build knowledge, skills, vocabulary and understanding progressively from EYFS to Year 6. We aim to develop confident, creative and responsible users of technology who can apply their learning across the curriculum and beyond.

Intent

The intent of our computing curriculum is to develop pupils who:

understand the fundamental principles of computer science
develop computational thinking and problem-solving skills
become confident in programming and coding
use technology to create, communicate and present ideas
understand how technology works and how it shapes the world around them
know how to use the internet safely, respectfully and responsibly

Our curriculum ensures that pupils gain experience across the three key areas of computing:

Computer Science

Pupils learn how computers work and how programs are created. They develop their understanding of algorithms, programming and logical thinking.

Information Technology

Pupils learn how to use technology effectively to create digital content such as presentations, animations, documents and multimedia projects.

Digital Literacy

Pupils develop the knowledge and skills to use technology safely and responsibly, including understanding online safety, digital communication and the importance of protecting personal information.

Implementation

Computing is taught through a clearly sequenced curriculum from EYFS to Year 6, ensuring that knowledge and skills build progressively over time.

In EYFS, pupils begin by exploring technology through continuous provision, developing early understanding of devices, instructions and simple programming.

In Key Stage 1, pupils develop foundational knowledge of computing systems, begin programming using simple commands and start to create digital content. They learn how to use technology safely and responsibly.

In Key Stage 2, pupils deepen their understanding of computer systems and networks, develop their programming skills using block-based and text-based languages, and apply their knowledge to create increasingly complex digital outcomes. They also learn how data is collected, analysed and used in real-world contexts.

Across the school, pupils regularly:

design, write and debug programs
apply logical reasoning to solve problems
collect, analyse and present data
create a range of digital media, including images, animations and websites
communicate and collaborate using digital tools
develop their understanding of networks, the internet and digital systems

Learning is practical, purposeful and engaging. Pupils use a range of technologies, including computers, tablets and programmable devices, to apply their knowledge in meaningful contexts.

Online safety is explicitly taught in every year group and embedded throughout the curriculum. Pupils learn how to recognise risks, protect personal information and behave responsibly online.

Teachers use modelling, scaffolding and targeted support to ensure all pupils can access the curriculum and achieve success.

Impact

The impact of our computing curriculum is that pupils leave Old Hill Primary School as confident, capable and responsible users of technology, ready for the next stage of their education.

By the end of Year 6, pupils:

have a secure understanding of algorithms, programming, data and digital systems
apply computational thinking to solve problems independently
create a range of high-quality digital outcomes across different contexts
understand how technology is used in the wider world
use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly
communicate their understanding using accurate technical vocabulary

Assessment in computing is integral to our curriculum and aligned with our whole-school approach. Pupils are assessed against four key areas:

Knowledge – what pupils know and remember about computing concepts, including algorithms, programming, data and digital systems
Skills – how effectively pupils apply their learning in practical contexts, including coding, debugging and creating digital content
Vocabulary – pupils’ use of accurate and subject-specific language to explain their thinking
Understanding – pupils’ ability to explain concepts, make links and apply their learning in different contexts

Assessment is ongoing and informs teaching. Teachers use observation, questioning, discussion and the quality of pupils’ digital outcomes to identify whether pupils are working below, at or above the expected standard. This ensures that teaching is responsive and builds on prior learning over time.

Enrichment Opportunities

Computing at Old Hill Primary School is enriched through opportunities that extend learning beyond the classroom. Pupils may take part in activities such as:

digital creativity projects
coding challenges
online safety events
technology-based learning across the curriculum

These experiences help pupils understand how computing connects with the wider world and future careers.

Each year group also has an ongoing focus regarding online safety.

computing overview.pdf