At Our Lady and St Joseph’s, Computing supports our commitment to “Searching faithfully for excellence,” rooted in our Gospel values of love, respect, stewardship, honesty, hope, justice and forgiveness. We believe that every child should develop the knowledge, confidence and skills to use technology creatively, safely and responsibly. Through Computing, pupils learn to solve problems, communicate ideas and understand how digital technology shapes their lives and the wider world.

Key Aims

Our Computing curriculum aims to develop confident, capable and responsible users of technology, building children’s knowledge and skills progressively from the Early Years through to Year 6. We strive to:

• Encourage curiosity about how computers and digital systems work.

• Develop logical thinking, creativity and problem-solving through programming.

• Enable children to select and use digital tools for different purposes.

• Build an understanding of how to evaluate digital information and content.

• Teach children to protect their personal information, communicate respectfully and seek help when needed.

• Develop independence and resilience when exploring technology and overcoming challenges.

Content and Skills

Our curriculum provides carefully sequenced coverage of the National Curriculum requirements through three connected areas: computer science, information technology and digital literacy. Pupils will:

• Understand algorithms and use them to create, test and improve programs.

• Develop programming skills, including finding and correcting errors in code.

• Explore how computer systems and networks work, including the internet.

• Use digital tools to create, organise, store and present information.

• Collect, analyse and present data for different purposes.

• Evaluate digital content and learn that information found online may not always be accurate or reliable.

• Understand how to use technology safely and respectfully, recognise concerns and know how to report them.

Children use laptops in their classrooms during Computing lessons and across other subjects. This gives them opportunities to apply their skills through research, writing, presentations and creative activities.

In Nursery and Reception, children explore technology through age-appropriate play and practical experiences. Supported use of interactive whiteboards and iPads encourages curiosity, communication and early problem-solving, alongside simple messages about safe use.

Progression

Learning in Computing is carefully planned so that children revisit and build on previous knowledge. Early experiences of following instructions, recognising sequences and exploring digital tools provide foundations for programming, creating digital content and understanding computer systems.

As pupils progress, they tackle more complex problems, choose suitable tools with greater independence and explain their decisions. Regular opportunities to practise and apply their learning help children develop confidence and fluency.

Teachers assess understanding through discussion, observation and pupils’ practical work. Teaching, resources and support are adapted to address gaps, provide challenge and enable every child to participate and make progress.

Wider Impact

Computing develops creativity, critical thinking, perseverance and collaboration. Children learn to approach challenges logically, test ideas and use mistakes to improve their work.

Online safety runs throughout our teaching. Pupils consider how their digital choices affect themselves and others, reflecting our Gospel values of respect, honesty and care. They learn about personal boundaries, responsible communication and maintaining a healthy balance in their use of technology.

Our online learning platforms also provide opportunities to practise skills beyond the classroom. Families who experience difficulties accessing a suitable device or the internet are encouraged to speak to school so that support can be discussed.

Our Computing curriculum equips children with the knowledge, skills and judgement to participate confidently and responsibly in an increasingly digital world.