Computing at Thringstone

Technology is an important part of everyday life, and we want every child to become a confident, creative and responsible digital citizen.

Our Computing curriculum reflects our curriculum drivers of Communication and Aspiration. Children learn to communicate safely and effectively using technology, solve problems logically and develop the digital skills they need for secondary school and beyond.

We use the Teach Computing Curriculum, developed by the National Centre for Computing Education, which provides a carefully sequenced curriculum that builds knowledge and skills year by year.

How We Teach Computing

Computing is taught through a series of carefully planned units that build on previous learning. Children revisit key concepts each year, allowing them to strengthen their understanding and apply their skills in new contexts through a spiral curriculum.

Our curriculum is organised around four key themes:

• Computing Systems and Networks
• Programming
• Creating Media
• Data and Information

Throughout every unit, children also learn about digital safety, responsible technology use and the impact technology has on the world around them.

Early Years

Children begin developing computing skills through exploration, play and problem-solving.

They learn to use simple technology safely, operate programmable toys, recognise technology in everyday life and develop the language needed to describe and explain what they are doing.

These early experiences lay the foundations for later learning in Computing.

Developing Digital Skills

As children move through the school they become increasingly confident in using technology to create, communicate and solve problems.

They learn to:

• understand how computers and digital devices work
• write, test and debug computer programs
• collect, organise and present data
• create digital media including text, images, animation, music and video
• use technology safely, responsibly and respectfully
• think logically and solve problems through computational thinking.

Computing is taught using a range of software, online tools and physical devices, giving children practical experience of technology they will encounter beyond primary school.

Online Safety

Keeping children safe online is an essential part of our Computing curriculum.

Online safety is taught regularly through Computing, PSHE and assemblies, helping children understand how to stay safe, protect personal information, behave responsibly online and know where to seek help if something worries them.

As technology continues to change, we aim to give children the confidence and knowledge to use it safely, responsibly and positively throughout their lives.