Computing

Our Computing curriculum prepares children to live, learn and work confidently in a digital world. From Year 1 to Year 6, pupils develop their knowledge and skills through three key threads: Digital Literacy, Computer Science, and Information Technology. These strands are carefully sequenced to ensure clear progression across the school.

Digital Literacy teaches children how to use technology safely, responsibly and respectfully. In Key Stage 1, pupils learn to recognise different types of technology, use devices confidently and understand simple rules for staying safe online. As they move through Key Stage 2, they develop a deeper understanding of how the internet works, how information is shared, and how to evaluate online content. By Year 6, pupils can use search engines effectively, understand how results are ranked, recognise issues such as copyright and digital ownership, and communicate responsibly online.

Computer Science focuses on programming and computational thinking. Children begin by creating and following simple instructions, learning that programs are built from clear sequences of commands. As they progress, they design, write and debug their own programs, using repetition, selection and variables to control outcomes. In upper Key Stage 2, pupils create more complex projects, including those involving inputs, outputs and controllable devices, developing logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.

Information Technology enables pupils to use technology creatively and purposefully. In the early years, children create digital artwork, write and edit text, and present simple data. As they grow in confidence, they work with animation, audio, video, databases and spreadsheets. By the end of Year 6, pupils can create digital publications, manipulate images and 3D models, analyse data using formulas, and select appropriate tools to present information effectively.

Online safety is woven throughout all three threads, ensuring pupils understand both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with using technology.

By the end of primary school, our pupils are confident, capable and creative users of technology who understand how digital systems work and how to use them effectively.

We are very lucky at Kingsteignton School to have a whole wide range of technology to utilise across all year groups, including iPads, Chromebooks for each child, interactive whiteboards in every classroom and many other devices to support coding.

Computing knowledge and understanding is also expanded outside of specific Computing lessons. All children have regular opportunities to use their knowledge within other subjects too – for example giving presentations using PowerPoint about a History topic.

We have a real focus on promoting Online Safety at Kingsteignton School, with Computing lessons being a key component of this. We ensure that the importance of Online Safety stays fresh in the minds of the children as they move through the school and their knowledge and understanding of this are built up year on year.

Throughout the year, we also carry out a range of different assemblies to promote Computing across the school, such as Internet Safety Day.

DfE Programme of Study – Computing