Computing
Computing Curriculum Intent
Our computing curriculum is designed to provide pupils with a thorough and ambitious education in computing, equipping them with the knowledge and skills they need to use technology confidently, creatively and responsibly. Through computing, pupils develop computational thinking and problem-solving skills that enable them to understand how digital systems work and how technology can be used to create and communicate.
The curriculum is carefully sequenced so that pupils build secure knowledge across the key areas of computing, including computer science, information technology and digital literacy. New learning builds on prior knowledge, allowing pupils to make meaningful connections and develop increasingly sophisticated skills over time. Key knowledge and vocabulary are revisited through intelligent repetition to support long-term retention and fluent application.
Strong foundations are established in the early years through the use of technology to support learning, exploration and communication, alongside early experiences of following instructions and recognising patterns. As pupils progress through the school, they develop greater independence and confidence in using a range of digital tools and programming concepts.
Online safety is a fundamental part of the computing curriculum. Pupils are taught how to use technology positively, responsibly and safely, and are supported to understand how their actions online can affect themselves and others.
Our computing curriculum is ambitious and inclusive, designed to be accessible to all pupils, including those with SEND and those who may face barriers to learning. By the end of primary school, pupils will have a secure understanding of key computing concepts, the ability to apply computational thinking and the confidence to use technology safely and effectively in a range of contexts.
Computing Subject Overview
The computing subject overview shows how key knowledge and skills are organised and revisited across each year group to support progression and retention over time.
How Computing is Taught
Computing is taught through a carefully sequenced curriculum that builds pupils’ knowledge and skills progressively over time. New learning is explicitly linked to prior knowledge so that pupils develop a secure understanding of computing concepts and increasing confidence in applying them. Lessons are structured to support pupils in developing computational thinking through clear explanations, modelling and practical application. Pupils are taught to create, test and refine digital content using a range of appropriate tools, and key vocabulary is explicitly taught and revisited to support understanding.
Online safety is taught as an integral part of the computing curriculum. Pupils are supported to use technology positively, responsibly and safely, and to understand when and how to seek help if something online makes them feel worried or unsafe.
In the early years, technology is used thoughtfully and purposefully to support learning. Children develop early computing understanding through short, focused activities using shared technology, alongside opportunities to explore “unplugged” technology and everyday digital tools. Early discussions about online safety help children to build awareness and confidence as they move through the school.
Adaptive Teaching
Our computing curriculum is designed to be inclusive and accessible to all pupils, including those with SEND and those who may face barriers to learning. Adaptations are made through high-quality teaching so that all pupils can access the same computing curriculum. Learning is carefully structured to support pupils in developing computing knowledge and skills with confidence. Tasks are broken down into manageable steps and supported through clear visual instructions, modelling and guided examples. Where appropriate, pupils engage in “unplugged” activities before using digital devices to help them understand concepts without cognitive overload.
Support is provided through approaches such as paired work, structured collaboration and scaffolded programming tasks, including partially completed programs or templates. These strategies help pupils to focus on key concepts while building independence over time. Pupils are given appropriate ways to demonstrate their understanding, including verbal explanations where extended typing may present a barrier. These adaptations ensure that all pupils can participate fully and make progress within the same computing curriculum.
Impact
The impact of our computing curriculum is that pupils develop a secure understanding of key computing concepts and the confidence to use technology purposefully and responsibly. Pupils can apply computational thinking to solve problems, create and refine digital content and explain their thinking using appropriate computing vocabulary. They demonstrate an understanding of how digital systems work and how technology can be used to communicate and create. By the end of primary school, pupils are able to use technology safely and effectively, understand the importance of online safety and are well prepared for further study and for living in an increasingly digital world.
Computing Enrichment
Pupils’ learning in computing is enriched through whole-school themed days, such as Safer Internet Day, which reinforce the importance of using technology safely, responsibly and respectfully. These events provide opportunities for pupils to deepen their understanding of online safety and digital citizenship in meaningful and age-appropriate ways. Opportunities are also taken to apply computing skills across the wider curriculum where appropriate. Pupils use technology to support learning in other subjects, helping them to see computing as a purposeful tool for communication, creativity and problem-solving beyond discrete lessons.
Supporting Computing at Home
We recognise that many children already use technology regularly outside of school. At Our Lady Mother of the Saviour, we encourage families to support computing learning at home in a balanced, safe and purposeful way. Children benefit most when technology use at home focuses on developing problem-solving, creativity and safe online behaviour rather than extended screen time. Simple activities such as talking about how technology works, encouraging logical thinking and discussing online safety all support learning in school.
A small number of carefully chosen websites and resources are shared via the link below.