Computing
Intent
At Highwood Copse, our computing curriculum is designed to equip children with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to thrive in an increasingly digital world. We aim to develop competent and responsible users of technology who not only understand how to use devices effectively, but also appreciate the importance of online safety and digital citizenship. From early years onwards, we encourage children to become curious, creative and critical thinkers who can apply their technological skills in a range of real-world contexts. Our vision is for every pupil to leave primary school as a digitally literate individual, ready to embrace future learning and life in the modern world with a strong sense of responsibility and safety online.
Implementation
Computing is taught weekly across the school and follows the Teach Computing Curriculum, which is structured around four key strands: Computer Science, Information Technology, Digital Literacy, and Computational Thinking. These strands ensure that pupils learn the fundamentals of programming and algorithms, understand how digital systems work, and become confident users of a variety of software for tasks such as creating documents, presentations, and media. Digital literacy is embedded throughout, helping children to recognise how to stay safe online and use technology in a responsible, respectful, and secure way.
We support this learning through a range of high-quality hardware and software resources. Children have access to iPads, laptops, and Chromebooks to explore different platforms and devices. In addition, pupils benefit from hands-on experience with Beebots to support early programming concepts in EYFS and Key Stage 1, as well as Micro:bits in Key Stage 2 to develop their understanding of physical computing and real-world problem solving. These tools enrich the learning experience and help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Impact
The impact of our computing curriculum is evident in the confidence and competence our pupils demonstrate when using technology. As children progress through the school, they build a secure understanding of the computing curriculum and develop a clear progression of technical skills. Pupils are able to explain how technology works, solve problems independently or collaboratively, and create purposeful content across a range of applications. More importantly, they leave us with a strong awareness of how to use technology safely, respectfully, and responsibly. Our approach ensures that children see technology not only as a tool for learning and creativity, but as an essential part of the modern world that can be used positively and effectively.