Computing

“Coding is today’s language of creativity.” | Maria Klawe

At St Cuthbert’s Catholic Primary School, our vision is for all pupils to enjoy computing and become confident, capable and responsible users of technology. Through engaging, relevant and inclusive lessons, we aim to equip children with the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to use technology safely, creatively and effectively both within school and in the wider world.

Our Computing curriculum is designed to support pupils from the Early Years Foundation Stage through to Key Stage 2, ensuring clear progression and continuity of learning. It enables children to embrace new technologies and apply essential computing knowledge, principles and concepts in a purposeful and meaningful way.

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

In EYFS, children are introduced to computing through play based and exploratory learning. They use technology to create, communicate and explore, developing early skills such as following instructions, problem solving and understanding cause and effect. These experiences lay the foundations for computational thinking and build confidence in using technology as a learning tool.

Key Stage 1

In Key Stage 1, pupils develop their understanding of how technology works and how it can be used for different purposes. They begin to create and follow simple algorithms, write and debug basic programs, and use technology to create and organise digital content. Online safety is taught explicitly to ensure children learn how to use technology respectfully, responsibly and securely.

Key Stage 2

Across Key Stage 2 as a whole, pupils build on prior learning to deepen their understanding of computing. They develop more advanced skills in computer programming, logical reasoning and problem solving, using concepts such as sequence, repetition, selection and variables. Pupils learn how computer networks, including the internet, work and how digital content is created, stored and shared. Online safety education is revisited regularly so pupils understand digital responsibility, privacy, online communication and their digital footprint.

Curriculum Design and Wider Use of Technology

The Computing curriculum is structured around three key strands:

• Computer Science

• Information Technology

• Digital Literacy and Online Safety

These strands are revisited and developed progressively throughout the school. Technology is also used across the wider curriculum to enhance learning, for example through research in history, data collection in science or creative digital outcomes in English.

Through our Computing curriculum, we aim for children to leave St Cuthbert’s Catholic Primary School as confident, thoughtful and ethical digital citizens, well prepared for the next stage of their education and life in an increasingly digital world.

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