Computing

Intent

At The Willows Catholic Primary School, we aim to develop confident, capable and responsible users of technology.

Our Computing curriculum is designed around the three key areas of computer science, information technology and digital literacy. Pupils learn how digital systems work, how to create and manipulate digital content and how to use technology safely, respectfully and effectively.

We want pupils to become logical thinkers and problem-solvers. They learn to design, create and debug programs, recognise patterns and apply computational thinking to different situations.

Pupils also develop the knowledge and skills needed to use a range of digital tools purposefully. They learn to create, organise, store, retrieve and present information and to make informed choices about the most appropriate technology for a task.

Online safety is an essential part of our curriculum. We want pupils to understand how to protect their personal information, recognise risks, behave responsibly online and know what to do if they encounter something that concerns them.

Our aim is to prepare pupils for a world in which technology will continue to develop while helping them understand that technology should be used safely, thoughtfully and responsibly.

Implementation

Computing is taught through a carefully sequenced curriculum that builds pupils' knowledge and skills progressively from the Early Years through to Year 6.

Pupils develop their understanding of computer science through programming and computational thinking. They learn to create and follow algorithms, write and debug programs and use logical reasoning to predict and explain how programs behave. As they progress, pupils apply these skills with increasing independence and complexity.

Information technology is developed through purposeful use of a range of digital tools and devices. Pupils learn to create and edit text, images, presentations, data, sound and other digital content and to select appropriate technology for different tasks.

Digital literacy and online safety are embedded throughout the curriculum. Pupils learn about privacy, passwords, digital footprints, appropriate communication, copyright, reliable information and how to recognise and respond to online risks.

Technology is also used across the wider curriculum where it enhances learning and gives pupils opportunities to apply their computing knowledge in meaningful contexts.

Pupils have access to a range of devices and programmable technology, including laptops, tablets and physical computing resources. Teaching focuses on the knowledge and concepts behind their use rather than simply learning how to operate particular devices or software.

Teachers use questioning, observation, practical tasks and pupils' digital work to assess understanding and identify where further teaching is needed.

Teaching is adapted where necessary so that all pupils, including those with SEND, can access and succeed within the Computing curriculum.

Impact

The impact of our Computing curriculum is seen in pupils' increasing confidence, independence and understanding when using technology.

As pupils progress through school, they should become increasingly competent in designing and creating programs, solving problems and explaining how digital systems work.

They should be able to select and use appropriate digital tools to create, organise and communicate information effectively rather than relying on a single device or application.

Pupils should also demonstrate secure understanding of online safety. They should know how to protect themselves and others, recognise potential risks, make responsible choices and seek help when something online causes concern.

The Computing subject leader monitors the quality and impact of the curriculum through pupil discussions, scrutiny of digital work, lesson visits and assessment information.

By the end of Year 6, our aim is for pupils to leave The Willows as confident, creative and responsible users of technology with secure foundations in computer science, information technology and digital literacy, ready for the next stage of their education.