Computing

Intent

At St. Gerard’s, we recognise that technology is an integral part of everyday life and is continually shaping the world around us. Our Computing curriculum is designed to inspire curiosity, creativity and confidence, enabling all children to become active participants in an increasingly digital society.

Rooted in Catholic values and the principles of Catholic Social Teaching, we encourage children to use technology responsibly and ethically, recognising the importance of human dignity, the common good and respect for others online. We aim to develop pupils who understand that technology should be used to support, help and positively influence their communities and the wider world.

We intend for pupils to develop a secure understanding of the fundamental principles of computer science, information technology and digital literacy. Through a carefully sequenced curriculum, children build progressively on prior knowledge and skills, enabling them to become resilient problem-solvers, logical thinkers and responsible digital citizens.

Our curriculum aims to:

• equip pupils with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving technological world;

• foster independence, creativity and resilience through opportunities to design, create, debug and evaluate digital content and programs;

• develop children’s understanding of online safety so they can use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly;

• prepare pupils for future education, employment and technologies that may not yet exist;

• ensure full coverage of the National Curriculum through a progressive and ambitious curriculum;

• promote meaningful cross-curricular links so children understand the purpose and relevance of Computing across all areas of learning;

• encourage pupils to use technology as a force for good, demonstrating compassion, respect and responsibility in line with Catholic Social Teaching principles.

We believe that Computing is not only a discrete subject but also a powerful tool for learning, communication and innovation across the wider curriculum.

---

Implementation

Our Computing curriculum is delivered through a well-structured and progressive scheme of work using the Purple Mash platform. This ensures consistency, clear progression of knowledge and skills, and high-quality teaching across all year groups.

Key features of our implementation include:

Curriculum Design and Progression

• A comprehensive long-term plan maps out the knowledge, skills and vocabulary taught in each year group.

• Units are carefully sequenced to build on prior learning and ensure progression across all strands of Computing.

• Teachers use clear planning, resources and assessment materials to support effective lesson delivery and subject knowledge development.

• Opportunities for retrieval practice and revisiting prior learning are embedded within units.

High-Quality Teaching and Learning

• Staff are supported through access to high-quality CPD, resources and subject guidance.

• Lessons provide opportunities for pupils to explore, create, problem-solve and apply computational thinking skills.

• Children use a range of software and digital devices to create programs, systems and digital content for a variety of purposes.

• Cross-curricular links enable pupils to apply Computing skills meaningfully in other subjects.

• Teachers promote discussion around ethical technology use, encouraging pupils to consider how digital actions can affect others and contribute positively to society.

Online Safety

Online safety is a fundamental aspect of our curriculum and is taught explicitly throughout all year groups. Pupils learn how to:

• stay safe online;

• protect personal information;

• communicate respectfully;

• recognise potential risks;

• report concerns appropriately;

• understand acceptable and unacceptable online behaviour.

Children are encouraged to become responsible digital citizens who understand both the opportunities and responsibilities that technology brings. Through the lens of Catholic Social Teaching, pupils learn the importance of respect, solidarity and caring for others within digital communities.

Early Years Foundation Stage

In the Early Years, children begin to develop their understanding of technology through play-based and practical experiences. Technology is integrated throughout the learning environment, enabling children to explore and interact with devices in meaningful contexts.

Children are provided with opportunities to:

• use interactive technology and programmable toys;

• develop communication and language skills through recording devices;

• explore technology through role play and outdoor learning;

• begin to understand how technology supports everyday life.

Key Stage 1

In Key Stage 1, pupils begin to understand algorithms and how programs work. They learn to:

• create and debug simple programs;

• use logical reasoning to predict outcomes;

• organise, store and retrieve digital content;

• use technology purposefully and safely;

• recognise the role of technology beyond school.

Learning is delivered through engaging units that develop both technical skills and creativity.

Key Stage 2

In Key Stage 2, pupils deepen their understanding of computer science and digital systems. They learn to:

• design, write and debug programs;

• use sequence, selection and repetition;

• decompose problems into smaller steps;

• understand computer networks and the internet;

• evaluate digital content critically;

• combine a range of software and digital tools to achieve specific goals.

Pupils continue to develop their understanding of online safety and responsible technology use as they prepare for the next stage of education.

---

Impact

The impact of our Computing curriculum is that pupils leave St. Gerard’s as confident, capable and responsible users of technology. Children develop the knowledge, skills and vocabulary needed to succeed in an increasingly digital world while understanding the importance of using technology ethically and respectfully.

By the end of each key stage, pupils will:

• demonstrate progression in knowledge and skills across all areas of Computing;

• use technology confidently, creatively and purposefully;

• apply computational thinking and problem-solving skills independently;

• understand how to stay safe online and act responsibly in digital environments;

• communicate and collaborate effectively using technology;

• show resilience, independence and confidence when tackling new challenges;

• understand how technology can be used to support the common good and positively contribute to society.

Pupil voice, outcomes, lesson observations and evidence in digital portfolios demonstrate that children enjoy Computing and are able to apply their learning across the curriculum. As a result, pupils are well prepared for the next stage of their education and for life in a technologically advanced society.