The Primary National Curriculum for computing is split into three strands: Information Technology, Digital Literacy and Computer Science.

• Information technology looks at the use of computers for functional purposes, such as collecting and presenting information, or using search technology.
• Digital literacy explores the safe and responsible use of technology, including recognising its advantages for collaboration and communication
• Computer Science focuses on understanding how computers and networks work.  It gives all children the opportunity to learn basic computer programmes from simple floor robots through to creating games using Scratch, physical computing using Lego Prime and Micro:bit

What are we aiming for?

Computing at The Stoke Poges School provides children with the vital computing skills they will need for the digital world.  It helps them to value and understand the importance of technology and how it is used, gives them the skills to research and communicate ideas, and teaches them to programme for different purposes.  Online safety is embedded through the curriculum to ensure children develop responsible attitudes towards digital life, preparing them for the 21^st Century.

How do we achieve this?

Computing is taught weekly using the Kapow Primary scheme of work. The scheme covers the key strands of the Computing curriculum outlined above. Once computing knowledge and skills have been taught explicitly, pupils are given opportunities to apply and develop them across other areas of the curriculum where meaningful links can be made.

The Kapow Computing scheme follows a spiral curriculum, ensuring that each strand is revisited through a range of themes throughout a child's time at school. This approach helps to embed learning, deepen understanding and support the progressive development of skills.

Online safety is embedded throughout the Computing curriculum. Pupils are taught the practical skills needed to use technology safely and responsibly, alongside an understanding of how to conduct themselves appropriately online. Through this, they are supported to become responsible, respectful and safe digital citizens.

Through a range of practical and engaging activities, pupils develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to:

• Recognise that technology is constantly evolving.
• Understand how to stay safe online.
• Become responsible digital citizens.
• Use technology effectively for a range of purposes.
• Develop programming skills and understand how technology can be manipulated to achieve a desired outcome.
• Think computationally to solve problems and create solutions.