Computing

At The Radstone Primary School our computing curriculum aims to develop independent, forward-thinking students who are prepared for the digital future. We recognize the pivotal role technology plays in shaping our world and our students' lives.  

 The national curriculum for computing aims to ensure that all pupils: 

• Can understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms and data representation. 
• Can analyse problems in computational terms, and have repeated practical experience of writing computer programs in order to solve such problems. 
• Can evaluate and apply information technology, including new or unfamiliar technologies, analytically to solve problems. 
• Are responsible, competent, confident and creative users of information and communication technology.  

Our scheme of work covers all these aspects of the curriculum and equips pupils to use computational thinking and creativity to understand and change the world. It develops pupils understanding of programming and computer science while also providing opportunities for creative and collaborative work. 

"Everyone should learn how to program a computer, because it teaches you how to think." – Steve Jobs

"Girls, who code, change the world." – Reshma Saujani

Curriculum Intent

Our intention is for Computing to support children’s creativity and cross-curricular learning, engaging children and enriching their experiences in school. 

 Our approach is built on three core concepts: 

• Communicating: Fostering innovative and imaginative use of technology to express ideas and solve problems. 
• Algorithms and Programming: Developing logical reasoning, algorithmic thinking, and problem-solving skills. 
• Using technology safely, respectfully and purposefully: Promoting safe, ethical, and responsible use of technology.

We use the ‘Purple Mash Computing Scheme’ which is fully aligned to the UK National Curriculum, the scheme includes interactive resources, and full coverage of Information Technology, Computer Science and Digital Literacy. This enables us to deliver engaging and high-quality computer lessons that meet the needs of today's learners. 

Implementation

Through our core concepts, we strive to: 

• Deliver Quality Learning: Our curriculum, based on the Purple Mash Computing Scheme, ensures a comprehensive and progressive approach to computing education. We aim to develop pupils who are competent, confident, and creative users of information and communication technology, capable of applying their skills analytically to solve problems. 
• Inspire Enthusiasm: We encourage a 'can-do' attitude when engaging with technology, inspiring pupils to become active participants in the digital world. Our goal is to ignite a passion for computing that extends beyond the classroom, encouraging pupils to explore and innovate with technology. 
• Foster Partnerships: We recognise the importance of collaboration in the digital age. Our curriculum emphasizes teamwork in projects and problem-solving, preparing students for the collaborative nature of many tech-related fields. We also partner with families and the wider community to ensure a holistic approach to digital education and online safety. 

We aim to provide quality computing education that enthuses pupils about technology and fosters partnerships within and beyond the school community. We look to equip our students with the skills and knowledge to become responsible, respectful, and competent users of technology, prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age. 

 

Our Computing curriculum focuses on a progression of skills within the strands of Digital Literacy, Computer Science and Information Technology. Online safety is built into the planning throughout the year, across the school to ensure that children become competent in safely using and understanding a range of technology. 

 

Impact

The impact of our computing curriculum is evident in the following outcomes: 

• Digital Literacy and Creativity: Pupils demonstrate competence and creativity in using a wide range of digital tools. They can confidently create, manipulate, and share digital content, showcasing their learning and ideas through various digital mediums. 
• Computational Thinking Skills: Students exhibit strong problem-solving skills, applying computational thinking strategies to break down complex problems, design algorithms, and create solutions. This skill set extends beyond computing, positively impacting their approach to challenges in other subjects. 
• Responsible Digital Citizens: Our pupils understand the importance of online safety and digital ethics. They demonstrate responsible behaviour online, know how to protect themselves and others, and make informed decisions about their digital footprint. 
• Enthusiasm for Technology: Students show a genuine interest in technology and its applications. They are eager to explore new tools and technologies, demonstrating the enthusiasm we aim to foster. 
• Preparedness for Future Learning: Our pupils are well-prepared for the next stage of their education, with a solid foundation in computing that will serve them in their future studies and careers. 
• Cross-Curricular Application: Students can apply their computing skills across other subjects, demonstrating the transferability of their digital knowledge and skills. 
• Collaborative Skills: Pupils work effectively in teams on digital projects, reflecting the collaborative nature of many tech-related fields and our emphasis on partnership. 

We assess these impacts through regular observations of learning, review of digital projects, and discussions with pupils about their learning journey in computing. The way pupils’ showcase, share, and publish their work provides tangible evidence of the curriculum's impact. 

When children leave The Radstone Primary School, they are digitally literate, resilient, and responsible citizens, ready for the challenges and opportunities of a digital future. They have a strong foundation in our core concepts of communicating, algorithms and programming, and using technology safely, respectfully and purposefully, preparing them to be active, ethical participants in the digital world. 

Key Information

Computing Vocabulary Progression 2025-2026

Computing Progression of Skills

Computing KS1 - Overview for website 2025-2026

Computing - KS2 Overview for website 2025-2026