Computing at KWPS
Subject Leader: Mr B Smith
What Computing Looks Like at KWPS
EYFS: In the Early Years, Computing is taught through play, exploration and continuous provision as part of Understanding the World. Children begin to use technology purposefully, exploring devices such as tablets, computers and programmable toys. They develop early skills in problem solving, logical thinking and creativity, alongside learning how to use technology safely.
KS1 & KS2: Computing is taught through structured weekly lessons using the Purple Mash scheme, which is aligned with the National Curriculum. Lessons are carefully sequenced to build knowledge and skills progressively across the three key areas of Computing: computer science, information technology and digital literacy.
Pupils develop skills in:
- coding and programming
- using software and digital tools
- understanding how technology works
- online safety and digital responsibility
Enrichment
Computing is enriched through cross-curricular opportunities, use of digital technology across subjects, coding activities, and online safety events such as Safer Internet Day.
Assemblies
Assemblies support computing through online safety awareness, digital citizenship and responsible use of technology.
Cross-curricular links
Computing is linked with:
- Maths (logical thinking, algorithms)
- English (research, digital writing and presentation)
- Science (data handling, simulations)
- Art and DT (digital design and creativity)
Inclusive practice
All pupils access the Computing curriculum. Learning is adapted through scaffolding, visual support, structured tasks and adult guidance to ensure all learners can succeed. Pupils are supported to develop confidence when using technology.
The Intent of our Computing Curriculum
At Kirkham & Wesham Primary School, our Computing curriculum aims to equip pupils with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Our curriculum is designed so that children:
- understand how digital systems work
- develop computational thinking and problem-solving skills
- become confident and creative users of technology
- use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly
- build knowledge progressively across all areas of computing
Learning begins with simple interactions with technology and develops into more complex programming, data handling and digital communication skills.
The Implementation of our Computing Curriculum
Our Computing curriculum follows the National Curriculum and is delivered through the Purple Mash scheme. The curriculum is carefully sequenced to ensure progression across all year groups.
Curriculum Structure
EYFS: Understanding the World – Technology
KS1 & KS2:
- Computer Science (coding, algorithms, programming)
- Information Technology (using software, creating digital content)
- Digital Literacy (online safety, responsible use of technology)
Key Features of Implementation
Sequenced Learning
Lessons build on prior knowledge and skills, ensuring clear progression from EYFS to Year 6.
Programming and Coding
Pupils learn to design, write and debug programs using age-appropriate software.
Digital Creativity
Children use a range of tools to create, present and share their work digitally.
Online Safety
Online safety is taught regularly and embedded across all year groups to ensure pupils understand how to stay safe online.
Vocabulary Development
Key computing vocabulary is explicitly taught and revisited to support understanding and communication.
The Impact of our Computing Curriculum
By the end of Key Stage 2, pupils at KWPS will:
✔ Understand how computers and digital systems work
✔ Design, write and debug simple programs
✔ Use technology confidently and creatively
✔ Understand how to stay safe online
✔ Apply computational thinking to solve problems
✔ Use appropriate technical vocabulary
Our pupils leave KWPS as confident and responsible users of technology, ready for the next stage of their education.
National Curriculum Aims for Computing
The National Curriculum for Computing aims to ensure that pupils:
- understand and apply the fundamental principles of computer science
- analyse problems and create programs to solve them
- evaluate and apply information technology
- use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly
At KWPS, these aims are embedded across all units and year groups.
Assessment
Assessment in Computing is used to monitor pupil progress and inform teaching.
Teachers use ongoing formative assessment through observation, questioning and review of digital work to identify misconceptions and adapt teaching.
Progress is monitored through:
- pupil outcomes and saved digital work
- teacher assessment
- pupil discussion
Assessment is used to identify gaps in learning and ensure all pupils make progress.
What is taught in each year group
Our Computing curriculum is carefully sequenced from EYFS to Year 6, ensuring progression in knowledge and skills over time.
Please see our Computing Curriculum Overview below for full details of what is taught in each year group.
Progression of Skills
Computer Science (Coding and Programming)
- EYFS: Children explore simple programmable toys and begin to understand instructions.
- KS1: Pupils create simple programs and begin to understand algorithms.
- LKS2: Pupils design, write and debug programs with increasing independence.
- UKS2: Pupils create more complex programs and understand variables, sequences and control.
Information Technology
- EYFS: Children use simple digital tools to create and explore.
- KS1: Pupils use technology to create, organise and present content.
- LKS2: Pupils use a range of software to create and present information.
- UKS2: Pupils select appropriate tools and present information effectively.
Digital Literacy
- EYFS: Children begin to understand how to use technology safely.
- KS1: Pupils learn basic online safety rules.
- LKS2: Pupils understand safe and responsible online behaviour.
- UKS2: Pupils evaluate online content and understand digital responsibility.
Inclusion and Accessibility
Our Computing curriculum is designed to be accessible to all pupils. We are committed to ensuring that every child can participate and succeed.
We meet our duties under the Equality Act 2010 and SEND regulations by:
- adapting teaching to meet individual needs
- using scaffolding and visual support
- providing targeted support
- maintaining high expectations for all learners
Key Documents
- Computing Curriculum Overview
- Computing Policy
Find Out More
If you would like more information about the Computing curriculum, please contact:
Mr B Smith – Computing Subject Leader
Enquiries can be made via the school office