Computing

The aims of computing in the curriculum.

Our computing curriculm aims to ensure that all pupils:

• can understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computing, including abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation

• can analyse problems in computational terms, and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs in order to solve such problems

• can evaluate and apply information technology, including new or unfamiliar technologies, analytically to solve problems 

• are responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information and communication technology.

• can develop and build metacognitive knowledge and skills.

At each key stage, pupils are entitled to the opportunity to develop computing capability through activities that arise in all curriculum areas, undertaken individually or in groups, as well as being appropriate to both boys and girls.

Our Intent (What we do)

At Barwick in Elmet CE Primary School and Nursery, our intent is to deliver an ambitious, progressive and inclusive Computing curriculum that equips all pupils with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing digital world.

We aim for every child to:

• Become confident, critical and creative users of technology.

• Develop secure understanding of the three strands of Computing: Computer Science (coding, algorithms, logical reasoning) Information Technology (content creation, data handling, digital tools) Digital Literacy (e-safety, online behaviour, responsible technology use).

• Use computational thinking to solve problems, persevere and think logically.

• Understand how to stay safe online and develop respectful, responsible online behaviours that reflect our school values of Love, Peace and Respect.

• Access a computing curriculum that is fully inclusive, with adaptations and support enabling all learners—including those with SEND or disadvantaged backgrounds—to achieve well.

• Develop digital creativity, preparing them for future learning, future careers and life in a digitally connected world.

Our Computing curriculum empowers children to be safe, confident and independent digital citizens.

Our Implementation (How we do what we do)

Curriculum Design

• We follow a carefully sequenced curriculum that builds knowledge and skills progressively from EYFS to Year 6.

• The Computing curriculum is structured around the three national curriculum strands:

  • Computer Science

  • Information Technology

  • Digital Literacy

• Children revisit concepts each year in greater depth, ensuring long-term retention and secure understanding (a spiral curriculum).

• EYFS computing learning is embedded within continuous provision, focusing on technological exploration, early logical thinking, pattern recognition and e-safety.

Teaching and Learning

• Computing is taught weekly through high-quality, well-resourced lessons.

• Teachers model concepts clearly using unplugged activities, practical tasks and digital tools to secure conceptual understanding.

• Children progressively develop skills in:

  • coding and algorithms

  • debugging

  • multimedia creation

  • data handling

  • using a range of devices and software

  • evaluating digital content

• Oracy is woven through lessons: children explain algorithms, describe processes and discuss digital safety and choices.

Online Safety

• Online Safety is taught explicitly every half-term and reinforced across the curriculum.

• Lessons draw on DfE guidance and resources such as Project Evolve / Education for a Connected World.

• Children are taught to:

  • recognise risks

  • protect personal information

  • communicate respectfully online

  • seek help when something feels unsafe

• The whole school community engages in Safer Internet Day and ongoing e-safety communication.

Inclusion and Adaptive Teaching

• Lessons provide scaffolds such as:

  • step-by-step instructions

  • visual prompts

  • paired programming

  • chunked tasks

• Pupils with SEND are supported through adapted interfaces, alternative input devices, vocabulary support and targeted adult guidance.

• Challenge is built in for rapid graspers through open-ended problem solving and creative computing tasks.

Cross-Curricular Opportunities

• Pupils apply computing skills across subjects, e.g.:

  • using data handling in maths

  • digital art in art

  • multimedia storytelling in English

  • presenting geographical data

• Teachers integrate digital literacy into everyday classroom practice.

Assessment

• Formative assessment is used in every lesson to identify misconceptions and inform adaptations.

• Summative assessment across each unit captures pupils’ understanding, fluency and ability to apply skills.

• Leaders monitor computing through pupil voice, lesson visits and work samples.

Our Impact (The result of what we do)

By the end of each key stage, children will:

• Demonstrate secure knowledge in computer science, information technology and digital literacy.

• Use technology confidently and purposefully to create content, solve problems and communicate ideas.

• Show resilience and independence when using digital devices and solving computational problems.

• Speak confidently about computing concepts using accurate vocabulary.

• Understand how to keep themselves and others safe online and exhibit responsible online behaviour.

• Make strong progress from their starting points, including pupils with SEND and those who are disadvantaged.

By the end of KS2, pupils leave Barwick in Elmet CE Primary as:

• Safe, responsible digital citizens

• Confident coders

• Competent users of a wide range of technology

• Creative thinkers prepared for a digital future

This strong foundation ensures children are ready for the next stage of their education and for a world where digital competence is essential.