Computing

Subject Leader - Miss Berry

Computing at Key Stage 2

At our school, we use the Kapow Primary Computing Scheme to deliver an engaging, progressive and ambitious Computing curriculum throughout Key Stage 2 (Years 3-6). The curriculum is fully aligned with the National Curriculum and equips pupils with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Through practical, hands-on learning, children develop their understanding of how technology works, how it can be used creatively and responsibly, and how to stay safe online. Our aim is to nurture confident digital learners who can think critically, solve problems, collaborate effectively and use technology purposefully.

What children learn

The Kapow Computing curriculum is organised into five key areas:

Computing Systems and Networks - understanding computer systems, hardware, software and how devices communicate with each other.

Programming - developing coding skills through creating and debugging algorithms and programs.

Creating Media - designing and producing digital content such as websites, videos, presentations and animations.

Data Handling - collecting, analysing and presenting information using digital tools.

Online Safety - learning how to use technology safely, respectfully and responsibly.

Developing essential computing skills

Across all units, children build knowledge and understanding within three important strands:

Computer Science - understanding algorithms, programming and computational thinking.

Information Technology - using technology effectively to solve problems and create content.

Digital Literacy - becoming responsible, confident and creative users of technology.

Online Safety

Online safety is embedded throughout the curriculum and taught explicitly in every year group. Pupils learn how to protect their personal information, evaluate online content critically, communicate respectfully and seek support when they encounter concerns online. The curriculum is mapped to the Department for Education's guidance and the Education for a Connected World framework.

Preparing children for the future

By the end of Key Stage 2, pupils will have developed a secure understanding of digital technologies and the confidence to use them safely, creatively and effectively. They will be equipped with valuable problem-solving, communication and computational thinking skills that will support their future learning and everyday lives.

Computing Curriculum

Computer Science- The study of computers as machines and how they operate including programming, algorithms, variables, sequence, selection and repetition.

Digital Literacy- The skills you need to live, learn, and work in a society where communication and access to information is increasingly through digital technologies like internet platforms, social media, and mobile devices. This includes being knowledgeable and responsible users of technology, using the internet and other platforms safely and respectfully.

Information Technology- The ability to create, retrieve, combine and manipulate digital content. The understanding of computer networks, the world-wide web and the internet and how they operate.

Reading within the Computing Curriculum

In today's information-driven society, the ability to read critically is essential for academic and career success. By teaching reading across the curriculum, we are equipping children in our school with a crucial skill that will facilitate learning across the breadth of the curriculum. Reading is not just about decoding words on a page, but also about comprehending and analysing information. Reading is a fundamental skill in computing lessons, crucial for understanding computational thinking problems, comprehending code, and mastering instructions. It involves reading word problems, analysing and tracing code, and understanding the syntax and rules of programming languages. Teaching reading skills also includes using specific reading resources like storybooks or fact files to make the subject more accessible and engaging for pupils.