Computing

1. Introduction / Vision Statement

At Kilnhurst St Thomas' CofE Primary Academy, Computing plays a vital role in preparing our children to thrive in an ever-changing digital world. We aim to develop pupils who are confident, creative, resilient, and responsible users of technology. Our vision is to provide opportunities for children to become independent, life-long learners who can use technology to express themselves, solve problems, and stay safe online.

2. Our Aims in Computing

  • Equip children with the skills to use technology for learning, creativity, and communication.
  • Teach coding, programming, and problem-solving through engaging and practical activities.
  • Help children understand how to use technology safely and responsibly.
  • Build pupils’ confidence in using digital tools for future careers.
  • Provide opportunities for oracy and collaboration within Computing lessons.

3. What Computing Looks Like in Our School

  • EYFS: Pupils explore technology through play and digital art.
  • KS1: Pupils use Purple Mash and begin to develop early coding, digital literacy and learning how to stay safe online.
  • KS2: Pupils develop coding skills using Purple Mash and Micro:bits, create digital content, work with data, and use Chromebooks across subjects.
  • Online Safety: Taught explicitly through Purple Mash’s 2BeSafe lessons, and reinforced through PSHE, assemblies, and ClassDojo updates for parents.

4. Our Resources

  • Class sets of Chromebooks in KS2.
  • iPads in KS1 and EYFS.
  • Micro:bits for coding and programming projects.
  • Purple Mash scheme of work, ensuring progression and consistency across the school.

5. Online Safety

Online safety is at the heart of our Computing curriculum. Children are taught how to stay safe online through lessons, assemblies, and class discussions. Parents are kept up-to-date through ClassDojo posts and regular reminders about online risks and strategies for keeping children safe at home.

ThinkUKnow Online Safety - 4-7 - https://www.ceopeducation.co.uk/4_7/
ThinkUKnow Online Safety - 8-10 - https://www.ceopeducation.co.uk/8_10/
NSPCC - Staying Safe Online - https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/support-for-parents/
Parent Zone - https://parentzone.org.uk/

6. Wider Opportunities

  • Coding competitions planned for 2025–26.
    Opportunities to present and showcase digital projects.
    Visitors from industry to inspire pupils about future careers in technology.
Sample of Component and Composite Knowledge Overview Year 1 Sample of Component and Composite Knowledge Overview Year 4 Computing Overview KSV St T Progression of Skills Purple Mash Scheme of Work Overview with mixed age copy