Computing

Intent

At Sandhills Primary School, our intent for the computing curriculum is to equip all pupils with the skills, knowledge, and understanding to thrive in an increasingly digital world. By the time they leave Sandhills, pupils will be proficient in:

Coding: Writing and debugging programs, understanding algorithms, and solving problems using logical reasoning.

Using Technology Purposefully: Leveraging digital tools for creativity, communication, and productivity.

Online Safety: Navigating the internet safely, recognizing potential risks, knowing how to respond appropriately, and understanding the importance of kindness and respect in digital interactions.

Computer Networks & Search: Understanding how digital networks function and efficiently retrieving information using search technologies.

In addition, we aim for all pupils to have opportunities to apply their computing skills in cross-curricular projects, reinforcing the practical application of their learning. 

We will also provide regular online safety assemblies that complement the Be Internet Legends program, fostering a school-wide culture of online safety and kindness. Our approach to online safety will emphasise not only protecting oneself but also the importance of being kind, respectful, and responsible digital citizens.

By integrating these elements, we aim to cultivate confident, competent, and conscientious digital citizens at Sandhills Primary School.

Implementation

Our computing curriculum is delivered through a combination of specialised schemes:

Teach Computing: This scheme covers the curriculum areas by:

• Using Technology Purposefully: Lessons incorporate tasks that require pupils to use a variety of digital tools for different purposes such as creating digital art, writing and editing documents, and making videos and animations. Pupils learn to select appropriate tools and software for specific tasks, enhancing their digital literacy and productivity skills.

• Computer Networks & Search: Pupils explore the basics of computer networks, including how data is transferred and shared over the internet. They learn about key components like routers, servers, and the World Wide Web. The curriculum also includes units on effectively using search engines, understanding how search results are generated, and evaluating the reliability and relevance of online information.

• Discovery Coding: Focuses specifically on developing coding and programming skills.

• Online safety is covered with Be Internet Legends in KS2 and Digital Citizenship in KS1. This ensures robust online safety education, emphasising both safety and positive online behaviour.

Frequency: One computing lesson per week in each class.

Curriculum Links: The curriculum is aligned with the National Curriculum for Computing, ensuring comprehensive coverage of its requirements and objectives. Additionally, we go further than the national curriculum in our coverage of online safety, recognising its critical importance. This extension reflects our commitment to addressing the specific needs of our pupils and ensuring they are equipped to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.

Computing in EYFS

In the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), foundational computing skills are introduced through play-based learning, focusing on:

• Understanding the world around them, including technology use.

• Basic skills such as using simple educational apps and interactive games.

• Developing fine motor skills necessary for interacting with digital devices.

• Utilising Barefoot Computing resources, with a topic each term that fits into the learning environment, ensuring that computing concepts are seamlessly integrated into their natural exploration and learning activities.