Computing Curriculum Intent Statement

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 and technology, and provides insights into both natural and artificial systems. The core of computing is computer science, in which pupils are taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming. Building on this knowledge and understanding, pupils are equipped to use information technology to create programs, systems and a range of content. Computing also ensures that pupils become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves and develop their ideas through, information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.

Intent:

At Sutton on Sea Community Primary School, we believe that a high-quality Computing curriculum, nurturing pupils’ creativity and computational thinking, is essential for preparing them for the technical challenges of the modern world. We therefore aim to establish and maintain high-quality classroom instruction and resources so that children learn to:

  • Understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation
  • Analyse problems in computational terms, and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs to solve such problems
  • Evaluate and apply information technology, including new or unfamiliar technologies, analytically to solve problems
  • Become responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information and communication technology.
  • Navigate the online world equipped with a secure knowledge of how to remain safe at all times.

Implementation:

We teach Computing in half-termly blocks using the DfE’s approved Teach Computing scheme of work and Barefoot Computing in EYFS which gives teachers a clear sequence of progression from which they can utilise their creativity, subject-knowledge and understanding of their pupils to teach engaging and inspiring lessons.

This curriculum enables us to develop our pupils’ skills and knowledge in what Ofsted’s subject research review refers to as the pillars of progression:

  • Computer science: knowledge of computers and computation. It includes concepts such as data, system architecture, algorithms and programming.
  • Information technology: the context for how computers are used in society. It includes how they are used in different sectors, as well as the creation of digital artefacts, such as presentations, spreadsheets and videos.
  • Digital literacy: the knowledge and skills needed to use computer technology safely, effectively and with discernment.
  • Online safety is embedded throughout our Teach Computing curriculum, ensuring that children learn about safe and responsible online behaviour in a fluid and contextual way. Lessons are reinforced through our own online safety questionnaires as part of our safeguarding provision.

Impact:

We assess pupils’ Computing knowledge by using a combination of:

  • Every lesson includes formative assessment opportunities for teachers to use. They vary from teacher observation or questioning to marked activities.
  • Every unit includes an optional summative assessment framework in the form of either a multiple choice quiz (MCQ) or a rubric.

The computing curriculum is designed to ensure learners revisit and consolidate key knowledge across their primary school journey, with the complexity of subject knowledge and vocabulary increasing year on year. This ensures progression through key stages and a clear understanding of computational concepts.

By the end of their primary education, pupils will be digitally literate, prepared for their next stage of learning. They will have received training in various software and hardware, enabling them to use technology effectively, responsibly, and safely. Pupils will be able to apply their computational thinking skills across different contexts, ensuring they are well-prepared for the future.

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