Computing and On-Line Safety
.At Woodloes Primary School, our computing curriculum is designed to equip all pupils with the knowledge, skills and understanding they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world. In line with the National Curriculum and delivered through the Teach Computing scheme, our curriculum aims to develop pupils who are confident, creative and responsible users of technology.
Our intent is to ensure that computing is taught as a core, progressive discipline, underpinned by strong foundations in computer science, information technology and digital literacy. From Reception to Year 6, pupils systematically build their knowledge and skills through a carefully sequenced curriculum.
In the Early Years, children begin to develop their understanding of technology through purposeful play, exploration and adult-guided experiences. They learn to use simple devices safely and confidently, developing early skills in communication, creativity, problem-solving and logical thinking.
From Key Stage 1 onwards, pupils are taught to understand what algorithms are, how they are implemented as programs on digital devices, and how to create and debug simple programs. They develop an understanding of technology and how it is used in the wider world, including how to stay safe online.
In Key Stage 2, pupils deepen their understanding of computer science through progressively challenging programming and computational thinking. They learn to design, write and debug programs, use logical reasoning to explain how algorithms work, and understand how information is stored, communicated and represented digitally. Pupils also develop competence in using information technology to create purposeful digital content, including data handling and digital presentation.
Across all year groups, online safety is explicitly taught and revisited regularly to ensure pupils develop the knowledge and confidence to be responsible, respectful and safe digital citizens. Our curriculum supports pupils to understand the opportunities and risks of technology, including how to report concerns, manage privacy and evaluate online content critically.
The Teach Computing scheme supports high-quality teaching through its spiral curriculum model, where key concepts are revisited and built upon with increasing complexity. This ensures that learning is coherent, inclusive and ambitious for all pupils.
Our curriculum intent reflects Woodloes Primary School’s commitment to preparing pupils not only for the next stage of their education, but for life in a rapidly changing technological society. By the time pupils leave Year 6, they will be confident digital learners who can apply their computing knowledge across the curriculum, think critically, solve problems and use technology purposefully, safely and creatively.