Computing

At Coltishall Primary School, Computing helps children understand the digital world around them and gives them the knowledge and confidence to use technology creatively, purposefully and safely.

We want children to become confident problem-solvers, able not only to use technology but also to understand how digital systems work, how information is created and shared, and how to make responsible choices online.

Our Approach

Computing at Coltishall is built around three connected areas:

• Computer Science – understanding algorithms, programming, logical thinking and how digital systems work;

• Information Technology – using digital tools to create, organise, present and manipulate information;

• Digital Literacy – using technology safely, responsibly and critically.

Children learn through practical tasks, investigation and problem-solving. They are encouraged to test ideas, identify mistakes, improve solutions and explain their thinking.

Enquiry and Knowledge Organisers

Our Computing units are supported by Knowledge Organisers, which identify the important knowledge, vocabulary and questions children will explore.

These enquiry questions help children make connections between new learning and what they already know.

Examples include:

• What is an algorithm?

• How can we fix an algorithm?

• How can we use repetition?

• What is logical thinking?

• How do we use sequences in programming?

• How do we record different types of media?

• How can we present our work?

• What can we do if we are not sure about something on the internet?

Progression

Children build their Computing knowledge and skills progressively as they move through the school.

Younger pupils begin by exploring technology, understanding that instructions must be clear and ordered, and creating simple algorithms and programs.

As children progress, they develop their understanding of:

• sequences and repetition;

• debugging and logical reasoning;

• data and information;

• digital media;

• networks and the internet;

• variables and increasingly complex programming;

• spreadsheets and other tools for organising and presenting information.

Children revisit important concepts in increasingly sophisticated ways so that knowledge builds over time.

Creating with Technology

Computing is not only about coding.

Children use technology to create, communicate and present information in different forms. This includes working with images, text, sound, video, data and other digital media.

We want pupils to make thoughtful choices about which digital tools are most appropriate for a particular purpose.

Online Safety

Online safety is an essential part of Computing and of our wider safeguarding curriculum.

Children learn how to:

• use technology safely and responsibly;

• protect personal information and privacy;

• recognise when online information may be unreliable or misleading;

• understand appropriate online communication and behaviour;

• identify situations that make them feel uncomfortable or unsafe;

• know how and where to seek help.

Online safety is revisited as children grow so that teaching reflects the increasing opportunities and risks they encounter in the digital world.

Computing in the Early Years

In Reception, children encounter technology through their everyday learning and play.

They explore how different forms of technology work, develop early problem-solving skills and begin to understand that technology can be used for different purposes.

These experiences provide the foundations for later learning in programming, digital literacy and the purposeful use of technology.